FEMA Denies Colorado Aid for Last Year's Fires and Flooding
FEMA has denied Colorado's appeal for a major disaster declaration for two natural disasters that occurred last year, meaning federal aid will not be available for recovery efforts. This marks the first time in 35 years that Colorado has been denied federal assistance for a major disaster. The decision affects recovery from the Lee and Elk fires and mudslides in Rio Blanco County, which caused nearly $27.5 million in damage, and historic flooding in western Colorado, which caused almost $14 million in damage. Colorado officials, including Governor Polis and Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, have criticized the decision, calling it 'callous' and harmful to rural communities. 
