AP Wire

Edwards going back to Washington for flood aid

by The Associated Press

Gov. John Bel Edwards is returning to Washington this week, as he tries to build the case that Louisiana needs more federal assistance to recover from the summer flooding.

The Democratic governor is seeking $4 billion in federal aid to respond to the flooding that hit south Louisiana in August and March flooding that damaged north Louisiana. Louisiana received $438 million from Congress earlier this year.

Edwards will travel to Washington for meetings Wednesday and Thursday with congressional and White House leaders to discuss the remaining portion sought.

Members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation have warned the request would be more difficult if the state hasn’t devised a plan to spend the $438 million already received. But the flood recovery task force created by Edwards hasn’t yet agreed to a spending roadmap.