LANSING -- Michigan's governor is pushing back against a federal decision to deny aid to local communities impacted by severe weather.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced she is appealing a FEMA ruling against providing federal disaster assistance to areas in southwest Michigan impacted by tornadoes on March 6. The storms caused significant damage regionally, including the death of a 12-year-old girl in Cass County and three others in Union City, Branch County. She previously requested a presidential disaster declaration on April 1.

A release from the governor's office says FEMA denied relief through the Individual Assistance (IA) program for Michigan residents, as well as through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP); the latter supports projects to prepare for future potential disasters.

 "Families are still recovering from the devastation caused by the March tornadoes,” said Gov. Whitmer. “These storms damaged critical infrastructure, destroyed homes, and tragically claimed four lives. While I’m disappointed that FEMA denied our request for Individual Assistance, our work is not over. We will keep fighting to deliver the support our residents deserve, and help affected communities recover and rebuild. Michiganders are strong. We will get through this together.”

The governor's office says low-interest federal disaster loans are still available for businesses, organizations, homeowners, and renters who were impacted by these storms. It also encourages residents to visit the MIREADY page for information on what to do before, during, or after an emergency declaration.