According to a Fox News exclusive, the White House turned down Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s request for disaster relief from FEMA this week in the aftermath of a derailment of a train hauling toxic chemicals.
From Fox News:
A Biden administration official told Fox News Digital that it has provided extensive assistance to surrounding communities following the chemical release earlier this month in eastern Ohio. However, the official said the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the agency that usually provides relief to communities hit by hurricanes and other natural disasters, isn’t best equipped to support the state’s current needs.
“The Biden Administration is mobilizing a robust, multi-agency effort to support the people of East Palestine, Ohio. Since February 3, the Environmental Protection Agency has had personnel on the ground,” the official told Fox News Digital. “FEMA is coordinating with the emergency operations center working closely with the Ohio Emergency Management Agency.”
“But what East Palestine needs is much more expansive than what FEMA can provide,” they continued. “FEMA is on the frontlines when there is a hurricane or tornado. This situation is different.”
…
DeWine’s office said Thursday that it has been in daily contact with FEMA, but that the agency “continues to tell” the governor that Ohio isn’t eligible for disaster assistance. In response, FEMA said it is coordinating with EPA, HHS and the CDC to support the state.
More over at Fox News:
White House explains why it turned down disaster relief for Ohio https://t.co/B4EeQZpwsK
— Fox News Politics (@foxnewspolitics) February 17, 2023
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