For Release: Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

ILLINOIS COUNTIES DECLARED FEDERAL DISASTER AREAS

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today applauded U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Veneman's decision to declare 70 counties in the State of Illinois either primary or contiguous federal disaster areas due to drought that occurred from July 1 through August 30, 2003.

These designations make family-sized farm operators eligible to be considered for low-interest emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency, provided eligibility requirements are met. The primary counties in the 12th Congressional District are: Franklin, Jackson, Perry, Randolph, St. Clair and Williamson. The contiguous counties are: Madison, Monroe, Pulaski and Union.

"This is necessary assistance at an important time of year for the families that were affected by tough weather conditions," said Costello. "I will continue to work with leaders at all levels of government to coordinate appropriate responses to these situations."

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