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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sunday, October 15, 2006
President Bush Issues Emergency Declaration for New York State
Washington, DC - Rep. Louise M. Slaughter (D-Fairport), Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, today announced that President Bush has issued an Emergency Declaration for the State of New York. As a result, the resources possessed by federal disaster management organizations can now be called into action to assist ongoing recovery efforts in Western New York following last week's storm.
"This emergency declaration was needed so that the full weight and resources of the federal government could be brought to bear on this recovery effort," Rep. Slaughter said. "Now our emergency responders will have all the help they need as we continue working to get our Western New York communities back on their feet following this storm."
"I will continue to work with the New York delegation to ensure that federal resources flow quickly to where they are needed in the region," Rep. Slaughter added.
Federal resources will be 75% federally funded, with 25% in matching funds coming from state and local governments.
FUTHER DETAILS:
Erie, Genesee, Orleans, and Niagara Counties are now eligible for Category A and B Public Assistance. (Category A and B Public Assistance can be used to help state and local governments with debris removal and emergency protective measures designed to save lives, protect public health, and ensure safety and property.)
Furthermore, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is now authorized to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, as authored under Title V of the Stafford Act. It will have the authority to save lives and protect public health, safety, and property, as well as to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in areas designated as emergencies.
Further questions can be directed to FEMA's Office of Legislative Affairs at 202-646-4500.
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