By Judy Jewsome
District Representative

The recent ice storms have impacted the Second District in various ways. The most obvious was seen in the multitude of downed power lines, broken trees and closed businesses and schools. We saw neighbors helping neighbors and businesses sharing what they could for the betterment of the general public.

Sometimes however, disasters bring out the worst in us. Sadly, the most recent ice storms have served as reminders that not every outstretched hand is a helping hand. We have been alerted by local authorities and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) about recent scams targeted to the victims of the December 2007, ice storm.

It is our understanding that individuals are traveling door-to-door selling generators, offering debris removal services and in some cases electrical services (as certified electricians) with the false promises that FEMA and/or local utilities will reimburse the homeowner.

This afternoon, FEMA explained that reimbursements for generators occur only “when Individual Assistance (IA) has been approved, and only in cases of documented medical need.” As of today, FEMA has not approved Individual Assistance payouts for either Kansas or Missouri.

We join FEMA in seeking your help in addressing any possible fraudulent activity by asking you to contact either your local law enforcement agency or the Kansas Attorney General’s Office at 800-432-2310.