DeWine requests federal assistance for East Palestine train derailment

EAST PALESTINE — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is asking the White House for federal help in East Palestine.

DeWine spoke with officials at the White House Thursday morning to address the need for federal help after a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed earlier this month.

>> RELATED: DeWine says ‘no contamination’ from derailment found in East Palestine drinking water

“As a result of this conversation, the Governor has requested assistance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health and Emergency Response Team, and the CDC to provide on-the-ground assistance in East Palestine,” a spokesperson said.

DeWine’s administration has also been in daily contact with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to discuss the need for federal support in East Palestine.

“FEMA continues to tell Governor DeWine that Ohio is not eligible for assistance at this time. Governor DeWine will continue working with FEMA to determine what assistance can be provided,” the spokesperson said.

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