U.s. congressman Rodney davis proudly representing the 13th district of illinois

U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) today met with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator William Fugate regarding flaws in the disaster declaration process that punish small communities in larger populated states like Illinois. Davis requested the meeting after Illinois was denied again for federal disaster assistance to help with damage from December flooding.

“It was a productive first meeting,” said Davis. “I was encouraged by Administrator Fugate’s understanding of the inequity created by using a state’s population to determine the need for federal assistance. I believe he’s committed to finding a solution. We spoke about changing the system so it rewards local communities such as Alton and others that have taken disaster mitigation steps while protecting them when disaster strikes. However, communities in my district need a change now and that's FEMA placing greater weight on the localized impact of a storm when determining assistance. I continue to urge the Senate to take up the FEMA reform bill that will make this change now and I stand ready to work with the administrator in addressing this complicated issue.”

Davis is working on legislation requiring FEMA to place greater weight and consideration on the severe localized impact of a disaster when determining assistance. This language was included in the FEMA reform bill passed the House with unanimous support in February and is awaiting action by the Senate.