Regulatory Relief Guidance to Help Financial Institutions and Facilitate Recovery In Areas of Louisiana and Texas Affected by Hurricane Ike

Highlights:

• A federal disaster was declared on September 11, 2008, for selected parishes in Louisiana.
• A federal disaster was declared on September 7, 2008, for selected counties in Texas.
• The FDIC is encouraging banks to work constructively with borrowers who are experiencing difficulties beyond their control because of damage caused by the hurricane.
• Extending repayment terms, restructuring existing loans or easing terms for new loans, if done in a manner consistent with sound banking practices, can contribute to the health of the community and serve the long-term interests of the lending institution.
• The FDIC will also consider regulatory relief from certain filing and publishing requirements.
• Bankers and consumers who have questions related to the hurricane may call the FDIC toll- free at 1-877-ASK-FDIC, which is 1-877-275- 3342.

Distribution:
FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)
in Louisiana and Texas

Suggested Routing:
Chief Executive Officer
Compliance Officer
Chief Lending Officer

Note:
To receive FILs electronically, please visit http://www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/fil.html .

FDIC financial institution letters (FILs) may be accessed from the FDIC's Web site at www.fdic.gov/news/financial-institution-letters/2008/index.html .

Paper copies of FDIC financial institution letters may be obtained through the FDIC's Public Information Center, 3501 Fairfax Drive, E-1002, Arlington, VA 22226 (1-877-275-3342 or 703-562- 2200).