State officials frustrated with slow response to disaster declaration

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State leaders are expressing frustration that the federal government hasn't acted on the state's emergency declaration request.<br/><br/>Federal approval of the request would

Tuesday, January 10th 2006, 6:20 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State leaders are expressing frustration that the federal government hasn't acted on the state's emergency declaration request.

Federal approval of the request would help the state pay the cost of fighting wildfires that have buffeted the state. The state submitted its request more than a week ago.

Congressman Ernest Istook sent a letter to President Bush urging him to take immediate action on the state's request.

State Senate President Pro Tem Mike Morgan says he and state administrators are also frustrated with the lack of response to the state's request.

Wildfires have scorched 380,000 acres since November 1st. Grass fires have destroyed more than 220 homes and business and killed two people.