President Joe Biden has officially issued a disaster declaration for Nebraska because of damage caused by severe storms and tornadoes in the eastern part of the state April 26th and 27th.
Biden’s disaster declaration follows a request Thursday from Governor Jim Pillen, who had already declared a state disaster for Douglas, Washington, and Lancaster Counties. Biden’s declaration excludes Lancaster County
The presidential designation makes federal funding available, including grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other recovery programs.
Funding will also be available to state, tribal and eligible local governments, as well as some private nonprofit organizations, on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Governor Pillen expressed in a written statement his appreciation for the expedited declaration, saying “This approval will allow Nebraskans to get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”
He added that “We know the road to recovery will be a long one, but this declaration will help expedite processes and funding provided through FEMA, to help people take care of both immediate and long-term needs.”