Trump sets limited disaster aid for 10 Mississippi counties

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – President Donald Trump is issuing a federal disaster declaration authorizing aid to 10 Mississippi counties following flooding in late December.

Governments and certain nonprofit groups are eligible to be repaid for infrastructure damage, debris removal and overtime pay to emergency workers. The declaration applies to Clarke, Covington, Forrest, Greene, Jasper, Jones, Marion, Newton, Perry and Wayne counties.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says Friday that assistance to individuals and households is not included.

The 10 counties saw $7.5 million in damage. MEMA spokesman Ray Coleman says 264 homes and 21 businesses were destroyed or had major damage.

The U.S. Small Business Administration earlier offered low interest loans to residents and businesses.

Mississippi is also approved statewide for aid to reduce or eliminate long-term risk from natural hazards.

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