Christie appealing FEMA flood aid rejection for NJ

Governor Chris Christie has asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reconsider his request for a major disaster declaration to help towns and residents affected by flooding in March.

FEMA rejected the request last month, saying the damage was not severe enough. It found that 80 percent of homeowners affected were covered by insurance and said those who weren’t could work with local and state governments to get assistance.

But Christie has announced the state had filed an appeal.

Christie initially requested aid for Passaic, Bergen, Essex and Morris counties after rain-swollen rivers flooded streets and homes. In his appeal letter sent to President Barack Obama, the governor said he’s also seeking aid for Warren County.