(WASHINGTON, DC) - Praising legislative leaders for coming to agreement on relief for flood-stricken areas of northwestern Minnesota, Congressman Collin C. Peterson (D-7th District) said Thursday’s special session will be a good first step in the region’s recovery process.

“It’s been a tough summer for those whose lives were disrupted by the flooding. Roseau Mayor Jeff Pelowski and other community leaders have worked hard to keep attention focused on the importance of keeping their region viable,” Peterson said.

“Senator Moe, Speaker Swiggum and the Governor deserve praise for getting this assistance directed to northwestern Minnesota at such a critical time.”

The flood relief plan will provide about $32 million in state funding to Roseau, Warroad, Mahnomen, Ada and other communities that received heavy rains in June. The state money will match federal disaster aid to pay for agricultural damage, help rebuild infrastructure, and to assist businesses, local government and homeowners as they begin the recovery process.

“Disaster assistance has to be a joint effort between the state and federal government, and without the state stepping up to the plate, there would be no federal money coming this soon. A special legislative session won’t fix all the problems, but it should provide a much-needed boost to farmers, business owners and homeowners who have been waiting for help,” Peterson said.

-30-