In a Facebook post, an official said, “I’ve requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Donald J. Trump.” The post did not provide further details on the event that prompted the request.
A Major Disaster Declaration is a federal designation that can unlock financial assistance and resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.
Such a declaration can make federal funds available for emergency work, public infrastructure repairs and certain forms of individual assistance to households affected by a disaster. Governors or other authorized officials typically request the declaration from the president after assessing damage and coordinating with FEMA.
The request signals a move to seek federal support for recovery efforts, but it does not guarantee approval. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
