Statement by the Press Secretary on Federal Disaster Assistance for Mississippi

The President today made additional disaster assistance available to areas of the State of Mississippi impacted by Hurricane Katrina by authorizing an extension of 100 percent Federal funding of total eligible costs for debris removal costs and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program.

Under the President's order today, the time period for 100 percent Federal funding of total eligible costs for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance, has been extended through and including

June 30, 2006.

All Mississippi counties designated under the declaration are eligible for the assistance.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: FEMA (202) 646-4600.