TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of New Jersey. If accepted, the Major Disaster Declaration will allow the federal government to provide aid to the State of New Jersey and Warren County, which experienced the worst impacts from storms that hit the state on July 15, 2023.

“As New Jersey continues to recover from the dangerous weather-related disasters that have hit our state this summer, it is critical that we receive aid from the federal government to assist us in our recovery efforts,” said Governor Murphy. “We have successfully worked with the federal government many times on storm recovery, and we call on them again today to help us and the people of Warren County.”

"As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by the severe weather event in Warren County, we must not forget the businesses and residents who have been impacted," said State Director of Emergency Management and Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan. "By seeking federal assistance, we aim to provide the necessary resources and tools to rebuild and recover quickly.”

In the month of July, New Jersey experienced several storms which caused severe flooding, landslides, and damage to roadways and infrastructure, particularly in the inland areas of Warren County, resulting in severe damage to roads, stormwater management systems, homes, vehicles, businesses, public facilities, and other critical infrastructure.

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (NJOEM) and agencies in Warren County began working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on July 27 to assess storm damage. If the President approves the Major Disaster Declaration request, the State of New Jersey and Warren County can receive financial assistance to help with several priority recovery initiatives, including:
 

• Debris removal;
• Emergency protective measures;
• Permanent work;
• Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding; and
• Homeowner and small business disaster loan funding.

“Warren County residents attempting to rebuild their homes, businesses and lives following the severe storms deserve to be met with a swift state and federal response. The FEMA declaration is necessary to complement the State of Emergency declared previously by Governor Murphy, because it will support a full recovery for Warren County and other hard-hit areas. This is welcome news as we work to get the resources to the people and places that need them the most,” said Senator Doug Steinhardt, Assemblyman John DiMaio, and Assemblyman Erik Peterson, representatives of District 23.

"It's clear we can use the additional resources that would be made available through a FEMA Major Disaster Declaration to help with the recovery from the severe storm damage that our area recently suffered. We appreciate the governor's efforts to ensure that Warren County and other hard-hit areas get the federal assistance they need," said Senator Steven Oroho, Assemblyman Parker Space, and Assemblyman Hal Wirths, representatives of District 24.

To view the Governor’s letter to President Biden, click here