Biden to Visit Texas on Friday After Winter Storm Crippled State

(Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden will visit Texas on Friday to discuss recovery efforts after winter weather caused widespread damage and left millions without power.

Biden will travel to Houston and meet with local leaders to “discuss the winter storm relief efforts progress toward recovery and the incredible resilience shown by the people of Houston and Texas,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Tuesday.

The president is also expected to visit a health center where coronavirus vaccines are being distributed.

Vaccination efforts and daily life were disrupted across Texas, with millions of residents experiencing water disruptions and power outages after a week of frigid temperatures and storms overwhelmed a state where temperatures rarely dip that low.

The president said last week that he wanted to visit the state to speak with those affected by the brutal conditions but was wary of distracting resources from the recovery effort.

Over the weekend, Biden approved a major disaster declaration for the state, which allows uninsured homeowners to apply for federal grants to cover the cost of temporary housing and repairs. Federal funds will also be available to state and local governments as well as nonprofit organizations assisting with storm relief.

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