White House Denies Maryland's Request for $15.8 Million in Disaster Relief Funds

Strategic Insights -

Western Maryland residents are left reeling after a historic flood in May damaged over 200 homes, numerous businesses, and public utilities in several towns, including Westernport. Despite meeting federal thresholds for public assistance, the state's request for $15.8 million in disaster relief funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was denied by the White House. The denial has sparked concern and anger from Maryland's congressional delegation, Governor Wes Moore, and local residents, who argue that the state's need for aid is clear and compelling.

Key Takeaways:

  • The White House denied Maryland's request for $15.8 million in disaster relief funds from FEMA, citing that supplemental federal assistance under the Stafford Act is not warranted.
  • The denial comes despite Maryland meeting federal thresholds for public assistance, including $321,460 for Allegany County and $11,674,953 for the state.
  • Governor Wes Moore has vowed to appeal the decision within 30 days, and the state has provided some money to communities in Allegany and Garrett counties to begin rebuilding.
  • The rejection rate for individual assistance applications nationally was around 38 percent between fiscal years 2020 and 2023, while as high as 45 percent in previous years.
  • The formula used by FEMA to administer individual assistance may disadvantage applicants from states with wealthy communities and lower property values in rural areas.
  • The decision to deny public assistance to Maryland comes a day after President Donald Trump announced that he was granting requests for disaster relief from several other states, including West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan.

Statistics:

  • 200 homes and numerous businesses were damaged in the May floods in Western Maryland.
  • The floodwaters rose to a historic 12.4 feet in Georges Creek, forcing evacuations in Allegany and Garrett counties.
  • Maryland's request for $15.8 million in disaster relief funds was denied despite meeting federal thresholds of $321,460 for Allegany County and $11,674,953 for the state.
  • The rejection rate for individual assistance applications nationally was around 38 percent between fiscal years 2020 and 2023.
  • The formula used by FEMA to administer individual assistance may disadvantage applicants from states with wealthy communities and lower property values in rural areas.

Sources:

  • The Washington Post, article by Katie Shepherd
  • Government Accountability Office, report published in May
  • White House official statement, shared with The Washington Post