Western Maryland Communities Denied Federal Disaster Aid After Appeal Rejection

Following devastating flooding in May 2025, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has officially denied the State of Maryland’s appeal for a Major Disaster Declaration for Allegany and Garrett Counties. This decision leaves Western Maryland communities without further avenues for federal disaster funding, according to information released by the Office of Governor Wes Moore.

The denial means that affected residents and local governments will not receive federal assistance for rebuilding critical public infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, nor will they have access to programs like the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which aids in reducing future disaster risks. Despite the federal rejection, Governor Wes Moore has stated that the state will continue to support Marylanders in their recovery efforts. The state has already allocated significant resources, including the first-ever use of the State Disaster Recovery Fund and additional Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program funds, to assist those impacted by the flooding.

The flooding in Allegany and Garrett Counties resulted in damages validated by FEMA exceeding $33.7 million, which is nearly three times the threshold required for state qualification for assistance. This amount significantly exceeded the state’s threshold for assistance. The denial of the appeal means that this extensive damage will not be covered by federal aid.

This outcome marks the second time the state’s request for federal disaster assistance has been denied. The President must issue a Major Disaster Declaration for FEMA Public Assistance to become available. Without this declaration, communities are left to rely on state and local resources for recovery. The state’s appeal met qualifying levels and was comparable to federal resources previously awarded to areas in West Virginia, located near the affected Maryland regions.

Local officials in Western Maryland have expressed deep disappointment with the decision, highlighting the impact on their rural Appalachian communities. They emphasized that the denial leaves residents feeling overlooked by the federal government and will hinder efforts to repair damaged infrastructure, ultimately affecting the daily lives of residents and the financial stability of the county. Despite this setback, local leaders have affirmed their commitment to the resilience and rebuilding efforts within their communities.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore.

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