Contact: Jeannine Guttman
(202) 224-4751
Washington, DC
April 9, 2008

SENATOR COLLINS RELEASES STATEMENT ON FEMA’s DECISION THAT MAINE IS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR SEVERE WINTER STORMS

Sen. Collins Supported Request and Vows to Support Appeal

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials have notified the State of Maine that the agency has denied its request for an emergency declaration that would open the door for federal funding to help deal with the severe winter weather suffered by Mainers this year. Senator Collins recently spoke to FEMA officials in support of the Governor’s request for the declaration and said that she will support the Governor’s request for an appeal of that decision if one is made.

Earlier this month, Senator Collins sent a letter to the President urging him to support the Governor’s request to declare an emergency in Aroostook County as a result of recent major snowfall and winter storm condition. “

Following the news that FEMA has denied this request, Senator Collins released this statement:

“I am very disappointed that FEMA did not approve this disaster declaration for Aroostook County. As a native of Aroostook County, I know that residents are no strangers to adverse weather conditions. But this winter’s record snowfall has put an enormous financial burden on many local communities. Our public works departments have performed admirably, clearing roads during often treacherous conditions, but doing so has strained the limited budgets of our towns and cities.

“I will fully support any efforts the Governor makes to appeal this decision.”

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