Senator Warner released this statement following the announcement that Virginia’s request for federal disaster assistance for individuals for damage sustained in a 5.8 magnitude earthquake in late August has been denied by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency:

“If damage from a once-in-a-generation, 5.8 magnitude earthquake does not qualify for federal disaster relief, then I don’t know what does. I am very disappointed that FEMA has determined that Louisa County does not qualify for federal disaster assistance for individuals, and I fully support the Governor’s decision to appeal. Members of our staff have been working closely with federal, state and local officials to assess the damage and submit the required documentation, and we will continue to try to be helpful as the Louisa community works to rebound from this event. We also now will work closely with local officials to make sure residents are aware that additional resources, including low-interest loans for homeowners, renters and businesses, may be available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration.”