FEMA denies Massachusetts request for assistance after September storms

BOSTON, Mass. (WLNE) – Massachusetts will not be receiving assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after a series of storms in September.

The denial comes after Governor Maura Healey’s request for a major disaster declaration for Bristol, Hampden and Worcester counties on Dec. 11 as a result of severe storms and flooding.

In a letter responding to the Governor, FEMA determined that the damage from the event “was not of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the capabilities of the state, and affected local governments, and voluntary agencies.”

Karissa Hand, a spokesperson for Healey, released the following statement on Monday:

“Our administration is deeply disappointed that FEMA denied our request for a major disaster declaration for damage caused by extreme weather in September. We submitted a strong request based on the severe local impacts this storm had on our communities. We plan to appeal this decision and will do everything we can to continue our advocacy with our federal partners and support our communities.”

The full letter from FEMA to Governor Healey can be seen below:

FEMA’s letter to Governor Healey denying disaster assistance (FEMA)