Dotseth: Flood relief possible

State Rep. Jeff Dotseth, R-Silver Township, said relief already is available for people who suffered property damage last winter, and the House approved more aid that could apply to spring flooding on a 127-0 vote and sent it to the governor for his anticipated approval.

The House appropriated $40 million to the state's disaster assistance contingency account Thursday - the same day the city of Moose Lake declared a state of emergency due to flooding in the area. Dotseth said the disaster account was becoming depleted and it was important to restore a healthy balance and minimize delays in local communities receiving disaster assistance payments.

"Time will tell the extent of flood damage in our district this spring, but it is reassuring to know we made these emergency funds available so they can be delivered to areas of need - including in our district - in a timely manner," Dotseth said.