Newsom requests ‘Major Disaster’ declaration as California is trampled by storms

By RIA ROEBUCK JOSEPH THE CENTER SQUARE CONTRIBUTOR

(The Center Square) - California

Gov. Gavin Newsom has requested a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration through the Regional Administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Robert Fenton. The request comes following months of a “Late Winter Storms event” that continues to bring historic rain, soaking the state and creating havoc for some communities. Forty-seven counties are under a State of Emergency. The total FEMA-incurred cost for just four counties exceeds $92 million. The request for relief through a Major Disaster Declaration for California asks for public assistance, individual assistance, disaster assistance programs, disaster loans and hazard mitigation.

Calaveras, Los Angeles,

Monterey, and Tulare Counties’ damages would be mitigated by the Public Assistance support program which includes 100% federal cost share for the removal of debris and emergency protective measures for the first 90 days. This may be extended beyond the time period for a 90% cost share.

Kern, Mariposa, Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, Tulare and Tuolumne Counties would benefit from the Individual Assistance Programs.

The Governor also expanded the storm state of emergency to the counties of Alameda, Marin, Modoc and Shasta.

Small Business Administration disaster loans and funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Emergency Loan Program would benefit the business sector.

“The ongoing Late Winter Storms event continues to impact the State, endangering lives and