Congressman Brad Sherman Urges SBA to Expedite Disaster Declaration for Franklin Fire Recovery

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA) called on the Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator to swiftly issue a disaster determination for the Franklin Fire, ensuring timely relief for residents, small businesses, and communities impacted by the devastating blaze.

“It is imperative that the SBA act quickly to make a disaster declaration so that those affected can access much-needed financial support,” said Congressman Sherman. “This assistance will provide relief to rebuild lives, businesses, and the community as a whole.”

In a letter to SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, Congressman Sherman emphasized the urgency of the situation and stressed the critical need for federal disaster assistance to support recovery efforts. If fully approved, a SBA disaster declaration would make low-interest federal loans available to homeowners, renters, and small businesses affected by the fire.

The Franklin Fire started on December 9th, burning more than 4,000 acres. The fast-moving fire has severely impacted an estimated 20,000 area residents, with over 12,000 people receiving a mandatory evacuation order, and over 7,000 people receiving a level 2 evacuation warning. 

Following an appropriate disaster declaration, the SBA can provide critical low-interest loans that help affected homeowners, renters, and business owners repair or replace damaged property and recover from the financial strain caused by disasters.

“I urge the SBA to move with urgency to make a formal disaster determination so that no time is wasted in providing relief to the families and businesses who need it most,” Sherman added.

Congressman Sherman remains committed to ensuring all available federal resources are directed toward helping the community recover and rebuild following this tragic event.

See: Fact Sheet on Potential U.S. Small Business Disaster Declaration and Disaster Loans

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