FEMA Denies Governor Fallin's Disaster Declaration Request

<p>Fallin announced Monday that the Federal Emergency Management Agency denied Oklahoma's request for a major disaster declaration following last month's tornadoes, flooding and straight-line winds.</p>

Monday, April 6th 2015, 3:05 pm

By: News On 6

FEMA Denies Governor Fallin's Disaster Declaration Request

Fallin announced Monday that the Federal Emergency Management Agency denied Oklahoma's request for a major disaster declaration following last month's tornadoes, flooding and straight-line winds.

In a news release, the governor expressed disappointment with the decision but says Oklahoma is still working to get assistance for those impacted by tornadoes in Moore, Sand Springs and Tulsa.

Fallin says Oklahoma will seek assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“Having toured the damage near Sand Springs and Moore, I know firsthand how devastating last month's tornadoes were to these communities,” said Governor Mary Fallin.

“While I am disappointed by the White House' decision to deny individual assistance, it is my hope the community can still receive help from the Small Business Administration. Many families and businesses could benefit greatly from the low interest loans the SBA provides to those who have suffered from storm damage.”

3/26/2015 Related Story: Governor Fallin Tours Sand Springs Tornado Aftermath

In a letter to Fallin denying her request, FEMA Administrator W. Craig Fugate says the damage caused by the storms was not beyond the capabilities of the state, local governments and volunteer agencies to handle.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.