Perry appeals fed's Hermine aid denial

AUSTIN (KXAN) - After a federal government denial for emergency help following Tropical Storm Hermine , Gov. Rick Perry sent President Barack Obama a letter Tuesday appealing the decision.

It's a decision that keeps the state from cleaning up from the extensive flood damages faster. The Presidential Disaster Declaration the government rejected Monday would give federal aid - $6.8 million for 13 counties - to boost ongoing recovery efforts in Texas.

"Although the storm has passed and the water has receded, numerous Texas families and communities have been left with costly damages," said Perry in a press release. "The state is committed to doing everything we can to pursue the assistance these Texans need and deserve as they continue to rebuild their lives."

Perry's appeal means he won't likely pursue loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration , which offers disaster loans that could help businesses and residents get back on their feet

The governor asked for the help three weeks ago for Bell, Blanco, Cameron, Coryell, Denton, Hill, Jim Wells, Johnson, Medina, Tarrant, Travis, Willacy and Williamson counties.

Specific requests in the appeal letter include:

•  Individual assistance, including the Individuals and Households Program, disaster unemployment assistance, crisis counseling and Small Business Administration disaster loans;
• Public assistance (all categories)
• Hazard Mitigation statewide.
   

Tropical Storm Hermine made landfall over the Mexican Gulf Coast in September and moved slowly northward through Texas, dumping up to 12 inches of rain in parts of the Rio Grande Valley, Central and North Texas.

High winds and heavy rain associated with this storm, as well as tornados and flash flooding, caused extensive damage and killed seven people across the state.