Gov. Gregoire�s statement on federal emergency disaster aid

For Immediate Release: January 30, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire issued the following statement on the Federal Emergency Management Agency�s (FEMA) approval of federal aid:

�Today I received confirmation from FEMA that eight of the nine counties that requested federal emergency disaster funds have qualified for aid. The Obama administration approved disaster assistance for King, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston, and Wahkiakum counties. This is welcome relief for the many families and businesses that have been adversely affected by the winter storms.

�While Clark County has not initially qualified for assistance, FEMA representatives indicated that Clark County can resubmit their request if they choose.

�Emergency officials expect to complete a recommendation soon of additional counties that meet disaster declaration requirements.

�I applaud President Obama for expediting these requests, which helps Washingtonians in the affected counties begin the recovery and rebuilding process.�