Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has requested a disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for South Texas communities affected by the Welder Fire earlier this month. If approved, the SBA declaration will enable federal assistance through disaster loans for San Patricio County and its neighboring areas.

"The resiliency of South Texans is on full display as recovery efforts continue in the aftermath of the Welder Fire," Governor Abbott stated. "Such resiliency must be matched by the resources provided to help our fellow Texans. Today, I requested a disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration to give Texans whose homes or businesses were damaged access to low-interest loans that are critical to rebuild their communities. I thank the Texas Division of Emergency Management for partnering with state and local officials to ensure Texas meet the eligibility requirements for this financial assistance."

If granted, qualifying residents and business owners in areas impacted by the Welder Fire would have access to low-interest loans through SBA's disaster programs.

The request follows an analysis conducted by local, state, and federal officials assessing damage in affected areas. The evaluation confirmed that San Patricio County meets federally-required thresholds for SBA aid. Officials also reviewed data submitted by residents via Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) surveys.

Governor Abbott continues his efforts to support communities affected by wildfires with various actions:

- Securing approval for Fire Management Assistance Grants for multiple fires including Rest Area Fire and Crabapple Fire.

- Activating additional state emergency response resources ahead of severe wildfire threats.

- Requesting SBA officials join state and local partners in conducting joint preliminary damage assessments in South Texas.

- Increasing readiness levels at the Texas State Emergency Operations Center due to potential wildfire dangers.

- Deploying state emergency response resources ahead of critical fire weather conditions.