Governor John Bel Edwards' April 4 request that President Barack Obama expand the existing federal declaration for the State of Louisiana to include Avoyelles Parish has been granted.

“My number one priority as governor is to ensure the safety and well-being of the people of our state,” said Gov. Edwards. “Connecting the people of Avoyelles Parish with access to critical federal assistance during a time of great need will make such a difference for the families affected. Donna and I continue to keep everyone impacted by the flooding in our thoughts and prayers.”

Previously approved parishes:

Allen, Ascension, Beauregard, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Calcasieu, Caldwell, Catahoula, Claiborne, DeSoto, East Carroll, Franklin, Grant, Jackson, LaSalle, Lincoln, Livingston, Madison, Morehouse, Natchitoches, Ouachita, Rapides, Red River, Richland, Sabine, St. Helena, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Union, Vernon, Washington, Webster, West Carroll, and Winn