FEMA advises Gov. DeWine Ohio is not eligible for assistance at this time

by Diana Asta

Thu, February 16th 2023, 5:56 PM UTC

FILE: Ohio Governor Mike DeWine meets with reporters after touring the Norfolk and Southern train derailment site in East Palestine, Ohio, Monday, Feb. 6, 2023. Authorities in Ohio say they plan to release toxic chemicals from five cars of a derailed train in Ohio to reduce the threat of an explosion. Gov. DeWine says a “controlled release” of vinyl chloride will take place on Monday at 3:30 p.m. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has been advised by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that Ohio is not eligible for assistance at this time.

DeWine shared on social media that he spoke with the White House earlier this morning to address the need for federal help in East Palestine.

Additionally, DeWine has requested direct support from the U.S. Dept of Health/Human Services, Health & Emergency Response Team, and CDC.

RELATED | 'Are we really safe?' East Palestine residents want answers after train wreck

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown has sent a letter to DeWine calling on him to declare a disaster in East Palestine and seek full support of the federal government to assist in the clean-up efforts.

"Additional federal resources can and should play a critical role in helping our fellow Ohioans get back on their feet and ensure that their community is a safe place to live, work, and raise a family,” Brown wrote.

DeWine responded to Brown in a press release, saying he would continue to work with FEMA to figure out what assistance can be provided.

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