[Congressman Billybob]

As I understand it, Blanco's early declaration was solely for the purpose of eliminating the liability of public officials and agencies (police, etc.) for steps they took in an emergency.

It was NOT the kind of declaration which would permit federal agencies like FEMA and the US Military to come into Louisiana. The State exclusion early on also applied to the Red Cross which, though private, is assigned some of the specific duties which FEMA oversees.

I went on the Snopes website, but I could not find how to contact them with regard to a specific entry.

John / Billybob

[OnRightOnLeftCoast]

Great post!

In trying to educate myself on when the feds could, or could not step in, a poster on another site said the feds didn't have to wait for LA's request.

They cited 42 USC 51709, and 42 USC 5192(a) as the authority.

I tried to link to the gov site without success, I guess due to demand.

Your take on these two cites?