Clinton Declares Citrus Counties Disasters

President Clinton issued a major disaster declaration in six California counties hit hardest by a crippling and costly citrus freeze. The declaration clears the way for special unemployment benefits for farmers and farm workers. The new designation also leaves the door open for rental and mortgage assistance, job programs and other aid that many farm workers are desperately hoping for as they struggle to meet their basic expenses. Additional counties may be added to the coverage area once a final damage assessment is completed. To date, the four-day freeze in late December has caused an estimated $656 million in crop losses, mostly oranges and lemons. The number of out-of-work pickers and packers has been estimated at between 14,000 and 28,000. Disaster-related claims for unemployment benefits have climbed to 5,981 and counting.