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Trump Approves Disaster Declarations for Seven States Amid FEMA Backlog

4/12/2026

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Trump Approves Disaster Aid

U.S. President Donald Trump approved major disaster declarations for seven states, enabling access to federal support for recovery from extreme weather events.
Hawaii also received a disaster declaration for severe flooding from Kona Low storms, reflecting Governor Josh Green's emphasis on federal resources for recovery.
The actions followed a backlog of disaster requests pending with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), amid concerns about funding during an ongoing DHS shutdown.
Some states, particularly Democratic-led ones, have faced delays and denials in their disaster requests, raising frustrations among officials.

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Trump Funds Flood Recovery

U.S. President Donald Trump approved federal funding for Washington state to address December flooding.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the funds will support individuals, nonprofits, local governments, and counties and tribal communities affected by the disaster.
Governor Bob Ferguson expressed gratitude for the disaster declaration, which followed his request for $173 million to repair infrastructure.
The flooding caused damage, with 33 rivers reaching flood stage and one fatality.
Residents can apply for federal assistance after filing insurance claims.

History

Historical Context

The Major Disaster Relief Act of 1988 established a federal framework for disaster assistance, empowering FEMA to allocate over $1 billion annually for recovery efforts. This act followed the 1974 Disaster Relief Act, which aimed to streamline federal disaster response. Recent disaster declarations by President Trump for states like Washington and Hawaii reflect ongoing federal support amid increasing climate-related disasters, highlighting the challenges of timely assistance.

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Trump Approves Disaster Aid

U.S. President Donald Trump approved major disaster declarations for seven states, enabling access to federal support for recovery from extreme weather events.
Hawaii also received a disaster declaration for severe flooding from Kona Low storms, reflecting Governor Josh Green's emphasis on federal resources for recovery.
The actions followed a backlog of disaster requests pending with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), amid concerns about funding during an ongoing DHS shutdown.
Some states, particularly Democratic-led ones, have faced delays and denials in their disaster requests, raising frustrations among officials.

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