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President Orders Disaster Aid For California Earthquake Recovery Release Date: January 13, 2004 WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that President Bush has declared a major disaster for California, opening the way for the use of federal disaster funds to help people and communities recover from the effects of the earthquake that struck the state in late December. Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, said the President authorized the aid following a review of FEMA's analysis of the state's request for federal relief. The declaration covers damage to private and public property from the magnitude 6.5 temblor beginning December 22. Immediately after the declaration, Brown designated San Luis Obispo County eligible for aid to stricken residents that can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses. Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also will be available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance. In addition, Brown said federal funds will be provided for the state and affected local governments in the counties of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara to pay 75 percent of the eligible cost for debris removal, emergency services related to the earthquake, and the restoration of damaged public property. The declaration also makes cost-shared funding available to the state for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. Brown indicated that additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. He named Peter Martinasco of FEMA to coordinate the federal recovery effort. Martinasco said affected residents and business owners in San Luis Obispo County can begin the disaster application process by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will be available starting tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. Last Updated: Friday, 16-Jan-2004 16:52:17 |