Thompson Calls on President to Provide Federal Disaster Aid to Are

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-5) today called on President Obama to issue a major disaster declaration for the areas impacted by the August 24th earthquake. The letter to the president, led by Thompson was also signed by Senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein, Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (CA-12), and Congressmen Jared Huffman (CA-1) and John Garamendi (CA-3). A major disaster declaration, which was formally requested by the State of California, would provide federal assistance to the communities that were damaged by the earthquake. The president must approve the state's request.

"The earthquake hit our communities hard and federal assistance is needed for our area to fully recover from the damage that was caused," said Thompson. "I stand ready to help expedite any support and resources because the sooner we get aid from the federal government, the sooner we can begin rebuilding and repairing our homes, businesses, and infrastructure."

If federal assistance is approved by the president, funds from Federal Emergency Management Agency FEMA may be available for individuals to help rebuild and repair housing, and for local communities to repair public infrastructure.

Small Business Administration (SBA) loans may be available to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property, inventory, and supplies. Homeowners and renters may also be eligible for SBA loans to repair or replace disaster-related damages to homes or personal property.

The state and our local governments have conducted damage assessments and have determined that the extent of the damages are beyond their capacity to repair without federal assistance. Because of this determination the state has formally requested that the president issue a major disaster declaration. The president must approve the state's request for federal assistance to become available.

FEMA does not provide for assistance if there is another option in place, like insurance. All individuals should contact their insurance companies first to see what benefits, if any, their plan provides.

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