The State of Arkansas received a formal denial from the federal government for Individual Assistance (IA) funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in response to the severe storms and tornadoes that impacted the state on March 14. The IA program provides direct support to individuals and households affected by disasters, including housing assistance, disaster-related medical expenses, and personal property replacement.
While the request for IA has been denied, Arkansas’s application for Public Assistance (PA)—which helps local and state governments with debris removal, emergency protective measures, and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure—remains under federal review.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced that her administration is actively working with the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) to appeal the federal government’s decision. Under federal regulations, Arkansas has 30 days from the date of denial to submit additional documentation and justification to support the appeal.
“This denial does not reflect the full extent of the hardship Arkansans are facing,” Governor Sanders said. “We are committed to fighting for the resources our communities need to recover and rebuild.”
Meanwhile, joint local, state, and federal teams are conducting damage assessments related to a second round of severe storms and flooding that began on April 2 and continue to affect parts of the state. These assessments are expected to last through the end of April. Once complete, the State will compile the findings and submit a request to the White House for a Major Disaster Declaration.
Officials emphasize the importance of thorough and accurate data collection in order to secure the federal support needed to assist communities still reeling from back-to-back natural disasters.
Residents impacted by the recent storms are encouraged to report damage to their local emergency management offices and stay updated through official state channels.
