President Trump approves a major disaster declaration for Irma

At Gov. Rick Scott's request, President Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for Florida.

By Jarleene Almenas
| 4:15 p.m. September 10, 2017

Ormond Beach Observer
News

President Trump has approved a major disaster declaration request by Gov. Rick Scott for Florida, which authorizes federal funding to go directly to residents most impacted by Hurricane Florida.

Scott made the request earlier Sunday afternoon, not long after Hurricane Irma made landfall at Cudjoe Key in the Florida Keys.

“It’s clear that the entire country is standing with Florida as Hurricane Irma batters our state right now," Scott said in a released statement. "I have heard from people all across the world that want to help and support Florida. It’s encouraging, and on behalf of all Floridians — we appreciate the support and constant collaboration."

A major disaster declaration allows 100% federal reimbursement for 30 days in all counties for emergency protective measures at the state and local level. This includes costs from emergency operation centers, evacuation, shelters and other costs associated with emergency response. After the 30-day period, the federal government will reimburse 75% of these costs.

It also allows a 75% federal reimbursement for all counties for debris removal and direct federal financial assistance for families in Charlotte, Collier, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Pinellas and Sarasota County.