Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has sought a disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for South Texas communities affected by the Welder Fire earlier this month. If granted, 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."

Should Texas' request be approved, SBA would offer low-interest loans through its disaster programs to eligible Texans whose properties were damaged during the Welder Fire.

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

Governor Abbott continues his efforts to provide resources supporting wildfire-impacted communities:

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

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

- Obtaining approval for similar grants concerning both Welder Fire and Duke Fire.

- Requesting SBA officials collaborate with state and local partners on preliminary damage assessments in South Texas.

- Raising readiness levels at the Texas State Emergency Operations Center due to wildfire risks across Texas.

- Deploying state emergency response teams in anticipation of critical fire weather conditions.