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KENTUCKY TODAY

As people begin the long process of picking up the pieces of their lives following the devastating flooding in eastern Kentucky that has killed at least 37 people, several state and federal agencies are offering services for victims.

President Joe Biden issued a major disaster declaration for 13 counties, opening the door for federal aid to state and eligible local governments, along with certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis, for emergency protective measures in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, and Wolfe counties.

In those eight counties, renters and homeowners affected by the severe storms, flooding and mudslides, may apply for individual disaster assistance by visiting one of the in-person mobile registration centers, applying online at DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362).

For additional information, and a variety of other state services, visit governor.ky.gov/floodresources.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) has created a resource page on its website for those in the affected areas.

That page, at kyagr.com/disasters/eastern-ky-flood.html, has a list of ways ag producers can find the help they need while they work to recover what was lost.  It includes:

• Disaster Assistance Programs from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency.

• A tip sheet for ag producers for assessing damage.

• Information from the Kentucky State Veterinarian’s office on livestock disposal.

• Mental health resources.

Secretary of State Michael Adams announced his office is exercising its statutory authority to waive the Certificate of Authority requirement for any out-of-state businesses assisting Eastern Kentucky residents with relief and recovery efforts after the deadly flooding there.

Under the exemption, out-of-state businesses aiding with such efforts can conduct business in the Commonwealth for 30 days without a Certificate of Authority issued by the Secretary of State.

Additionally, the Secretary of State’s Office will grant expedited review of filings by those businesses impacted by the floods. Those interested should include “Flood Relief” in the subject line of their email request to sosfilings@ky.gov.

A fraudulent text message (to see photos, click here, here and here) impersonating an official KYTC message was reportedly sent to several people this week. The sender appears to target flood victims by including a link to submit information related to the waiver of card and registration replacement fees. The text message is not from KYTC, and recipients are warned not to click the link. Victims who have submitted any personal information are advised to visit the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General website, ag.ky.gov, to follow their guidance concerning potential identity theft.