Biden approves Major Disaster Declaration for Florida

WASHINGTON, D.C. (FLV) – President Joe Biden approved federal disaster assistance to help Florida recover in the areas affected by Hurricane Idalia beginning Aug. 27.

Gov. Ron DeSantis had requested a Major Disaster Declaration to allow for the reimbursement of debris removal and additional assistance.

The aid can include grants for temporary housing, home repairs, low-interest loans for uninsured property losses and other programs for individuals and businesses recovering.

The federal funding is available to people affected in Citrus, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Suwannee and Taylor counties.

The governor had originally requested help for 25 counties. More counties may be approved in the future depending on how much damage there is, according to the governor’s office.

The federal funding is available to governments and eligible nonprofits on a cost-sharing basis.

FEMA is authorized to cover 100% of eligible costs for a period of 30 days beginning at the state’s choosing, according to the governor’s office.

The governor requested the declaration when Hurricane Idalia made landfall.

Businesses and individuals can apply for assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, call 1-800-621-3362, or use the FEMA App.