President Joe Biden’s administration reportedly denied Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s request for federal disaster assistance in response to the train crash in East Palestine earlier this month.
The derailment, which happened on February 3, resulted in a multi-day fire and spillage of significant amounts of toxic chemicals.
To reduce the possibility of an explosion, officials opted to start a controlled release of the chemicals.
All citizens within one mile of the accident site were instructed to evacuate, however they were allowed to return home on February 8.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informed Ohio that the Biden administration was rejecting its request for federal help because the incident did not meet the agency’s criteria.
Earlier in the day, the Republican DeWine administration issued a statement claiming that the Biden administration was refusing to support the town through federal disaster funding.
“The DeWine Administration has been in daily contact with FEMA to discuss the need for federal support, however FEMA continues to tell Governor DeWine that Ohio is not eligible for assistance at this time. Governor DeWine will continue working with FEMA to determine what assistance can be provided.” A statement from DeWine’s office read.
In a statement to Fox News, FEMA stated that it was in frequent touch with DeWine’s office but would not comment on its decision to refuse disaster help for the city.
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