MEMA Submits Letter of Intent to FEMA to Pursue Disaster Assistance

MARYLAND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY SUBMITS LETTER OF INTENT TO FEMA TO PURSUE DISASTER ASSISTANCE

REISTERSTOWN, Md. (January 25, 2016) — MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland has sent a letter of intent for the State of Maryland to pursue federal disaster assistance and to request that FEMA begin the coordination for joint damage assessments following the winter storm that covered Maryland in snow this past weekend. While response efforts, including snow removal, are continuing, Maryland agencies are also focusing on a comprehensive recovery effort.

“Our administration is committed to accelerating the recovery process in every way possible following this historic snowstorm,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I have directed MEMA to work with the federal government and seek all available assistance to support our public safety partners and the communities they serve.”

Federal assistance could potentially be made available through the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. MEMA will work closely with local governments and FEMA to jointly assess damages and costs incurred due to the storm.

“Reaching out to our federal partners is one step MEMA is taking as part of a comprehensive recovery effort following this unprecedented winter storm,” said MEMA Executive Director Russell Strickland. “We will also be working closely with local officials, businesses, and other State agencies to assess damages caused by the storm and decide how to move forward.”