Illinois State Senate District 37 issued the following announcement on June 21.
Governor Pritzker has included additional counties in his disaster proclamation. On June 20, Henry and Knox Counties were added to the growing list of counties impacted by historic rainfall and flooding.
As of June 21, there are now eight counties in the 37th Senate District that have been included in the declaration. Bureau, Henry, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mercer, Peoria and Woodford Counties are now all included in the Governor's declaration.
State agencies are working with FEMA and the USDA to ensure Illinois receives federal funding for our disaster areas. The Illinois Department of Agriculture will be making funds available to farmers impacted by the rains and flooding. People can visit the Department of Ag's Web site at https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/agr/Pages/default.aspx and click on the "Flood Assistance" tab to learn more.
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is working to ensure floodwaters are under control and to ensure the federal government is aware of our state's situation and needs. Check out IEMA's Recovery Web site at https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/2019Floods/Pages/default.aspx.
We hope to hear good news from FEMA and the USDA in the next week or two.
Pleased be assured that the Weaver Team is continuing to monitor our response and will continue to work with the appropriate state and federal agencies to get people the help they need.
Beware of flood damage scams
On June 18, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul warned residents not to fall for flood- damage scams and asked them to contact the Attorney General’s office to report fraudulent activities. Those worried about these scams could also contact the Better Business Bureau to find out if complaints have been made against a specific contractor, and residents should be wary of any individual who solicits home repair or insurance adjusting services door-to-door.
For those concerned that they may be interacting with a scammer, there are a few simple things that they can do to protect themselves. Ask to see a permit before entering into any contract. In Illinois, general contractors are not required by state law to be licensed, but municipalities may require permits or have other local requirements. Insurance adjusters must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Insurance, and roofers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Try to get estimates from multiple contractors and make sure you receive it in writing. Never make a full payment until all work has been completed in good quality. Never pay in cash. Anyone entering a contract has three days to cancel it if it was signed on the contractor’s visit to their home.
Original source can be found here.