By Trish Svoboda

President Joe Biden has approved Governor Laura Kelly’s request for a federal disaster declaration under the Public Assistance Program. This declaration addresses damages in multiple Kansas counties caused by a severe storm, which included large hail, damaging winds, tornadoes, and flooding from April 25-30. Governor Kelly submitted the request to FEMA on June 26.

The declaration enables state and local governments, along with certain private nonprofit organizations that offer vital services, such as rural electric cooperatives, to apply for Public Assistance funds. These funds support emergency and permanent work for repairing or replacing infrastructure damaged by the disaster. In addition, it activates the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide, aimed at preventing or reducing long-term risks to life and property from natural hazards.

Counties included in the declaration are Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Elk, Greenwood, Linn, Morris, Neosho, Pottawatomie, and Wilson.

“I am grateful that the request has been approved,” stated Governor Laura Kelly. “These funds will go a long way in supporting the restoration work by the impacted counties.”