Governor Josh Stein appealed the federal government's decision to deny an extension of FEMA reimbursement following Hurricane Helene.
In a letter to President Trump on Friday, Stein asked for reconsideration of FEMA's decision not to extend its 100 percent match for eligible storm-related costs in the state.
The federal agency denied Stein's extension request earlier this month, saying funding for “debris removal and emergency protective measures" was “not warranted.”
Stein said similar extensions were granted "in response to Hurricanes Katrina, Maria, and Ike."
"Without the extension, FEMA’s match drops to 90 percent," the governor's press release said. "Preliminary estimates have projected a cost to the state of up to $200 million."
Noting the extensive debris removal required in the region, Stein said if a six-month extension is not granted, the state requests a three-month extension.
