Tester offers online assistance finding fire, drought help

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., has launched an online portal on his Senate website Monday to help Montanans affected by drought and wildfire get federal assistance faster, a press release says.

“As fires and drought spread across Montana, I want to make sure that folks have access to the resources they need to recover from significant financial loss,” Tester said in the release.

The release said Tester is encouraging farmers, business owners, ranchers and families in Montana affected by drought to contact his office through the new portal, which can be accessed at his website at https://www.tester.senate.gov

The portal will allow Tester’s office more quickly guide people to financial assistance or resources they may be eligible for as a result of any losses they have incurred, the release said. People who use the portal need to leave their name, contact information and explain the issue they face.He said often times businesses and families don’t realize assistance is available to them after a natural disaster.

“If you have been impacted by fire or drought, please contact my office as soon as possible so I can get you squared away with the grazing relief, small business loan or recovery funds that are available to folks who suffer financial loss due to natural disasters.”

Tester spokesperson Dave Kuntz said as of Monday the portal has been used by a rancher from White Sulphur Springs who needed to secure disaster relief from losses he incurred from the Lodgepole Complex Fire.

Kuntz said Tester’s office will keep the portal active until fire season ends in October.