Michigan Seeks Federal Disaster

Liz Gullett

Jul 13, 2018

This week, Lt. Governor Brian Calley requested that President Donald Trump declare a major disaster for the State of Michigan as a result of the flash flooding that occurred last month. An in-depth assessment of the area concluded that Houghton, Gogebic, and Menominee Counties all experienced damage. The Lt. Governor requested supplementary federal aid in the form of Public Assistance and Individual Assistance to help eligible residents, businesses, and local governments.

If federal aid is granted, assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help people and businesses recover from the effects of the flooding. This request also includes assistance for costs incurred by state and local governments due to damage to public facilities and infrastructures, such as schools and roads.

Lt. Governor Calley’s request will be reviewed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which will advise President Trump whether a disaster declaration should be granted. Ultimately, the President will determine whether to provide federal assistance.

Gov. Rick Snyder declared a state of disaster for Houghton and Menominee counties on June 18, and added Gogebic County to the declaration on June 21, due to severe weather and widespread flooding, making available state aid and assistance to communities in the disaster area.

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