REISTERTOWN, MD (September 21, 2003) - Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. today signed a joint agreement between the State of Maryland and the federal government allowing federal assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Isabel.

"President Bush and Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge are commended by my Administration for their responsiveness to my request for federal disaster assistance," said Governor Ehrlich. "This contract will help the citizens and businesses of Maryland alike in rebuilding their lives and livelihoods," continued Ehrlich.

This agreement allows federal disaster relief assistance required by federal regulations. Federal regulations require that funds cannot be spent for disaster relief until the agreement is signed by both the Governor and the Federal Coordinating Officer. William Lokey of the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been designated by the US Department of Homeland Security as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Maryland.

Assistance to Maryland includes individual assistance, which helps citizens with damage to their personal property and state and local government assistance, which makes Maryland eligible for up to 75 percent reimbursement of the total costs associated with Hurricane Isabel. The State of Maryland has not yet determined the total costs of the storm.

Disaster victims may register for assistance by calling a toll-free number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The number for speech and hearing impaired individuals is 1-800-462-7585.

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