Trump Administration Denies Federal Funds for Wisconsin Flood Recovery Efforts

Trump Administration Denies Federal Funds for Wisconsin Flood Recovery

WISCONSIN — In a significant setback for flood recovery efforts, the Trump administration has denied Wisconsin’s application for federal funding aimed at mitigating future disaster risks following the devastating floods of August. The decision, announced by Democratic Governor Tony Evers on Wednesday, comes just a week after the state was similarly denied public assistance funds to restore critical infrastructure, including roads and schools.

The funding in question, part of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, is designed to help state and local governments implement projects that can reduce the impact of future disasters. In a letter from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), officials stated that the funding “is not warranted,” a decision that has left many in Wisconsin frustrated and concerned about future flood risks.

“Talk about adding insult to injury,” Evers remarked. “Not only did the Trump Administration deny our request for public assistance to help several communities rebuild and recover after severe weather caused over $26.5 million in damages to public infrastructure, but now, they’ve also denied our request for funding to help prevent this sort of devastation from happening again in the future.”

The state had sought funding for six counties: Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington, Ozaukee, Door, and Grant. Evers emphasized the importance of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program by citing past successes. Following severe flooding in Wauwatosa in 1997, funding from this program enabled the community to purchase and demolish 23 flood-damaged homes, ultimately leading to the creation of Hart Park, which played a crucial role in mitigating damage during the recent floods.

Despite the setbacks, Evers remains determined to secure the necessary funding. He announced plans to appeal the latest denial, stating that the administration has 30 days to do so. “We will continue to fight for our communities and ensure they have the resources needed to recover and prepare for the future,” he said.

In September, President Trump approved nearly $30 million in federal aid for the August flooding, with FEMA distributing over $92 million to eligible flood survivors as of October 10. This funding followed Evers’ formal disaster declaration request for Milwaukee, Washington, and Waukesha counties.

As Wisconsin grapples with the aftermath of the floods, the denial of these critical funds raises questions about the federal government’s commitment to supporting disaster recovery and prevention efforts in the state.