The federal government has approved Illinois’ request for disaster relief in 27 of 32 counties affected by flooding this year, Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office announced Thursday.
While the public assistance will allow county and municipal governments that have exhausted their available local resources to apply for grants and loans, a request for individual assistance that would benefit homeowners and business owners affected by flooding in 22 counties is still under review, Pritzker’s office said.
It is the first time the state has received a federal disaster declaration since 2013. The declaration required a recommendation from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and approval from Republican U.S. President Donald Trump.

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