(The Center Square) – Citing fall harvest losses at the top of a list, respective state House of Representatives leaders from North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama have petitioned Congress for fiscal assistance.

The Monday letter to U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell and U.S. Reps. Mike Johnson and Hakeem Jeffries said Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton had major impacts “especially in rural areas where agriculture is the lifeblood and economic engine for small communities.” The three hurricanes all landed in Florida over a span of 66 days, and subsequently generated damage across the South.