Long is now requesting federal aid for flooding in Missouri. Just one problem with that as The Turner Report points out. Congressman Long has no authority to request federal emergency disaster aid. One has to wonder if the four new media representatives who are a thorn in Long's side pushed him over the edge to step on Nixon's toes, pointing out that Long didn't seem to care much about the flooding when he was on his two-week break a couple weeks ago. There were no signs he toured the flooded areas in his district.
The Turner Report explains how Billy Long stepped on Jay Nixon's toes:
Flooding in the Seventh District prompted U.S. Representative Billy Long to request help from federal agencies for individuals and small businesses.
“The Small Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are here to make sure families and businesses get the help they need to rebuild. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is aware of the situation and we have asked Governor Nixon to reach out to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to get help where it is needed.”
Per the Stafford Act only the Governor of a State or U.S. Territory can request a major Federal disaster declaration. Based on the governor’s request, the President may declare that a major disaster or emergency exists, thus activating FEMA and other Federal programs to assist in the response and recovery effort.
By the way Mr. Long, would you please pull out that pocket Constitution of yours that is "rode hard and put up wet" and show me which enumerated power this falls under, Mr. "Tea Party before Tea Party" was cool Congressman. Don't give me that crap about the general welfare clause either. The general welfare refers to the 18 enumerated powers.
