WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds announced Tuesday that Department of Homeland Security Secretary Marco Rubio has signed off on the CNMI’s request for a major disaster declaration following Typhoon Sinlaku, with the package now on its way to the president’s desk.
King-Hinds said in a video message from Washington that a presidential response is expected within 24 hours or sooner.
Governor David M. Apatang’s request includes individual assistance, public assistance with direct federal assistance and hazard mitigation for Saipan, Tinian, Rota and the Northern Islands. The governor also requested a 100 percent federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures under both Category A and Category B, including direct federal assistance under the public assistance program.
“Through this major disaster declaration we can start unlocking some of this federal assistance that folks have been waiting for,” King-Hinds said.
King-Hinds said she hopes to travel to the CNMI within the next couple of days after the declaration is signed to speak with residents on the ground and assess what additional assistance should be requested before returning to Washington.
She acknowledged the toll the storm has taken on the community.
“CNMI, I know it’s been a long week — it feels like a month,” King-Hinds said. “Folks have been lining up at the gas, people have been waiting for power, people have been waiting for water, people are just exhausted.”
She asked residents to show patience and kindness toward one another and toward first responders as recovery continues.