Michigan Governor Rick Snyder has asked the federal government to declare Flint a major disaster on account of the city’s lead water crisis. That would make $96 million in sorely needed federal aid available to clean the water, fix the broken infrastructure, and provide health care to people who will suffer the life-long consequences of lead poisoning. But the Obama Administration said no, prompting an appeal from state and local lawmakers who are desperate for extra cash.
So what gives?
Federal disaster declarations are governed by the Stafford Act, which limits when the President, through executive agencies, can declare a disaster. The law provides for two types of declarations: an “Emergency” or a “Major Disaster.” Some federal aid is allocated in an Emergency, but much more is allocated in a Major Disaster.
An “Emergency” is defined as “any occasion or instance” that requires federal assistance to supplement state and local efforts and capacities to save lives, protect property, or avert a catastrophe. Continue reading “Flint: Why It’s Not A “Federal” Disaster”
