Suffolk Reporter

Rep. Nick LaLota has urged Governor Kathy Hochul to appeal FEMA's decision denying Individual Assistance for Suffolk County following severe flooding in August. In a letter, LaLota stated, "Suffolk County families devastated by the August 18th flooding cannot be left to shoulder the burden alone. FEMA’s denial of Individual Assistance leaves residents without the vital support they need to recover and rebuild." He emphasized that Governor Hochul should advocate for federal resources necessary for community recovery.

Governor Hochul had previously requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Biden on September 18th to secure both individual and public assistance for Suffolk County. For FEMA consideration, a state of emergency must be declared by the governor, who then requests assistance through FEMA.

On August 27th, Congressman LaLota joined Governor Hochul and local officials in assessing damage at sites like Mill Dam and Stony Brook University. Prior efforts included LaLota's request on August 19th for Governor Hochul to declare a state of emergency due to flooding. Subsequently, he appealed to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg on August 21st for infrastructure funding aid.

Following the State of Emergency declaration on August 23rd, LaLota requested disaster assistance from FEMA. An Emergency Declaration was granted on August 25th but offered limited help. Further appeals were made by LaLota on August 27th and September 12th regarding Individual Assistance delays.

President Biden supported public assistance with a Major Disaster Declaration on September 24th but denied individual aid on November 14th.