Flint water crisis: FEMA denies Michigan governor's request for more money

The federal agency stands by the level of aid it has already promised.

(Reuters)

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has again denied a request from Michigan Governor Rick Snyder for additional federal funds to help combat the lead poisoning in Flint, Michigan's water supply.

FEMA sent a letter to Mr Snyder's office on Monday rejecting his appeal of a previous denial of federal funds for Flint, Reuters reported. The agency said the funds he requested were not correct for this situation.

"It is recognized that substantial costs have been incurred at the state and local levels in responding to the health concerns associated with the water contamination," Elizabeth Zimmerman, FEMA associate administrator, said in the letter. "The assistance FEMA has provided and continues to provide is intended to address the immediate emergency needs."

Governor Snyder, who has taken a lot of heat as the Flint situation has unfolded, said he is disappointed with FEMA's decision. He will speak in front of a congressional panel about the crisis on Thursday.

The lead contamination began after Flint switched its water source from Detroit's system to the Flint River in 2014 to save the impoverished city money. Water from the Flint River had not been properly treated and it leached lead from antiquated pipes, bringing the poisoned water into homes and businesses in the city.

Many of the children in Flint who have been tested have shown elevated levels of lead in their blood, which can cause learning disabilities and other problems. Flint residents have been required to use bottled water to cook, drink and bathe since the contamination was made public.

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