Hill Responds to FEMA Rejecting Flood Relief Denial Appeal  

MARQUETTE — Last week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency informed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of its decision to deny Michigan’s appeal for assistance following the 2023 spring flooding in the U.P. The denial pertains to Whitmer’s Oct. 18 appeal for a major disaster declaration, focusing on public assistance for Baraga, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Marquette and Ontonagon counties, along with statewide hazard mitigation. Despite the evident challenges faced by the affected communities, FEMA has reaffirmed its original denial, asserting that the impact does not surpass the capabilities of the state and local governments. In response to the news, state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) released the following statement:

“I’m deeply disappointed with FEMA’s decision to deny the appeal for assistance in the aftermath of the devastating flooding that hit the U.P. last spring. FEMA’s denial stands despite the evident challenges faced by our communities and residents, who are still struggling to recover from the aftermath, and are now dealing with the lack of snow for our unique winter events and tourism. I know Yoopers will persist, and I won’t give up on fighting for us.”