Homeland Security chief says she’s considering RI plea for federal grants for flooding

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Napolitano considers flooded RI’s plea for grants

WARWICK, R.I. — Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano calls the flood damage in Rhode Island “significant” and says she’s considering a plea by Rhode Island officials who want more federal aid.

Napolitano got an aerial tour Friday of the damage caused by the worst flooding to hit the state in two centuries. Many of the worst-hit areas are still under water.

President Barack Obama has declared a disaster in much of the state. That triggers some federal money, but the state is required to pick up some of the tab.

In a news conference with Napolitano, the state’s congressional delegation pressed for more federal help in the form of grants, rather than loans.

Rep. Jim Langevin, whose district was hardest hit, says families, individuals and businesses need the help as soon as possible.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

WARWICK, R.I. (AP) — U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano says she’s considering a plea by Rhode Island officials who want more federal aid.

Napolitano got an aerial tour Friday of the damage caused by the worst flooding to hit the state in 200 years. Many of the worst-hit areas are still under water.

Napolitano tells The Associated Press she is encouraged by how well residents are recovering. She calls them tough.

She was accompanied by Gov. Don Carcieri (kuh-CHEER’-ee) and members of the state’s congressional delegation, who have asked the federal government to help the economically devastated state pay for its response costs and to fix ruined bridges, roads and sewer systems.