Governor Hochul Requests Major Disaster Declaration from President Biden to Secure Federal Assistance for Communities Impacted by Historic December Storm

Statement

Governor Kathy Hochul today requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Biden to support the ongoing recovery of communities impacted by the devastating late-December storm, which caused historic blizzard conditions in Western New York, as well as significant coastal flooding on Long Island. If granted, this declaration would allow for federal financial assistance for communities in Western New York, the Finger Lakes, the North Country, and on Long Island to cover damages and some response operations. The Governor is also requesting direct funding to cover funeral expenses and crisis counseling for residents of Erie and Niagara Counties. This effort builds upon federal assistance already secured by Governor Hochul through a December 26 federal Emergency Declaration which supported response and rescue operations throughout the six-day event.

"I have submitted a formal request to President Biden to secure a Major Disaster Declaration to support communities across New York impacted by the devastating winter storm that hit our state in December," Governor Hochul said. "Federal assistance will support my administration's ongoing efforts to help New Yorkers continue to recover from this once in a generation storm."

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