President Obama Issues Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Hawaii

Hilo, HI – President Obama issued a major disaster declaration for the State of Hawai‘i today, activating the release of federal funds to help with the recovery effort from the Puu Oo Volcanic Eruption and Lava Flow that began September 4, 2014.

“Pahoa and its people are resilient. Our continued efforts to help this community, particularly those impacted by the ongoing lava flow, will now be supplemented by much-needed federal funds," Senator Schatz said.  “I will continue to work with Mayor Kenoi and federal officials to do everything in my power to ensure that the people of Pahoa receive the help they need. Together we will get through this.”

The disaster declaration will provide Hawai‘i County with assistance for emergency protective measures and work, and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities under the Public Assistance program. The declaration also provides assistance for actions taken to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

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