FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 9, 2004
CONTACT: Jacob Dipietre  (850) 488-5394
                 

Governor Bush Thanks State of California for Providing Emergency Management Personnel to Assist With Hurricane Relief Efforts

TALLAHASSEE - Governor Jeb Bush today thanked California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger after signing an Emergency Assistance Agreement for hurricanes Charley and Frances. Through the agreement, California will provide emergency management personnel to assist in Florida's rebuilding effort following the catastrophic damage resulting from the recent hurricanes.

"I thank Governor Schwarzenegger and the state of California for coming to the aid of the people of Florida as we continue to rebuild from the devastating damage caused by Hurricanes Charley and Frances," said Governor Bush. "With the support of our friends across the country, we will continue to mobilize resources and offer support to those who have been displaced by these hurricanes."

Since Hurricane Charley more than three weeks ago, Florida has utilized all of its state and local emergency management personnel in an effort to protect public safety and allow for expeditious disaster relief. Through the Assistance Agreement, the emergency management directors of each state will have the authority to implement and coordinate this effort. The State of California will provide trained emergency management personnel and necessary supporting equipment for the Florida relief effort.

"Maria and I extend our deepest condolences to the people of Florida who lost their lives and homes due to Hurricanes Charley and Frances," said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California. "The mutual assistance agreement reached between our two states is a terrific arrangement that formalizes a mechanism for our states to help each other in times of disaster. We are happy to be able to offer assistance to Florida in their time of need."