Biden approves more federal disaster assistance for Kentucky

President Biden on Wednesday directed additional federal aid to Kentucky to help the state recover from devastating tornadoes.

The White House said that Biden amended the major disaster declaration he issued over the weekend so federal aid to Kentucky for “debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal Assistance” would be increased to 100 percent of total eligible costs for 30 days.

The original disaster declaration, which Biden signed Sunday, made assistance available at 75 percent of eligible costs.

Biden toured storm damage in Mayfield and Dawson Springs, Ky., on Wednesday afternoon before delivering remarks on his administration’s response to the tornado.

“The fact is, I’m going to make sure the federal government steps up and make sure we do every single thing,” Biden said. “We’re going to get you every single thing you need.” 

Responding to a reporter’s question, Biden said the federal government doesn’t need additional funding from Congress “yet” to cover the disaster costs.

The White House has made a concerted effort to show that Biden responded quickly to the crisis. Biden was briefed the morning after the storms swept across six states last week and left a path of destruction.

In Kentucky, 74 people were killed and more than 100 remain unaccounted for. 

Biden approved an emergency declaration for Kentucky on Saturday and a major disaster declaration the following day. He has also approved disaster declarations for Illinois and Tennessee.