WASHINGTON, DC – Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley issued the following statement about the wildfires burning in Southeastern Oregon:
“I am saddened by the devastation that farmers, ranchers and families in Southeast Oregon are continuing to experience as we deal with the largest wildfire in Oregon history. While there is still need to contain the damage and get the wildfires under control, we need to move quickly to provide relief for those affected. I’m calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Interior to take whatever measures necessary to expedite the processing of disaster assistance. We must find flexible assistance to the farmers and ranchers who have been devastated by this natural disaster. I am seeing the direct engagement by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to provide the most timely possible support to local officials for all available avenues of relief. ”
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