President Biden approves Governor Hochul’s Major Disaster Declaration for communities impacted by Tropical Storm Debby
ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul says that President Biden has approved her request for a Major Disaster Declaration to provide federal assistance to communities impacted by Tropical Storm Debby on August 8-10.
This declaration allows for federal financial assistance to support public infrastructure reconstruction efforts across several communities in New York State, including Jefferson and St. Lawrence.
“The effects of Tropical Storm Debby caused extreme damage across parts of New York last month, and I'm thankful President Biden has approved my request for a Major Disaster Declaration,” Governor Hochul said.
A Major Disaster Declaration secures financial assistance from the federal government, primarily through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, and provides funding to local governments and eligible non-profits for debris removal, protective measures, and repairs to buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water and wastewater treatment facilities, critical infrastructure sites, schools, parks and other facilities.
“I sincerely thank President Biden for heeding my calls to ensure communities across New York impacted by this historic flooding have the support they need to rebuild stronger than ever, and I will continue to fight to deliver all of the federal support needed to the Southern Tier, North Country and impacted communities across Upstate New York,” U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said.
As part of the declaration, New York was also granted access to FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs.
Following a Presidential disaster declaration, FEMA provides funding for states to administer grant programs supporting local hazard mitigation planning and long-term hazard mitigation measures to reduce the loss of life and to improve property damaged by natural disasters.
Local governments and certain non-profits that perform government-like functions are eligible to apply for these grants.
All counties in the State will have the ability to apply for this funding. More information will become available in the coming months.
Albany Capitol image.
