White House Denies Earthquake Aid for Oklahoma

The White House has denied a request from the state of Oklahoma for individual assistance for those affected by a series of earthquakes earlier this month.

Gov. Mary Fallin said Wednesday she’s disappointed and will consider other options, including a potential request for U.S. Small Business Administration assistance for homeowners and business owners.

Fallin asked for individual assistance on Nov. 22 for those impacted by earthquakes that began Nov. 5.

A 5.6 magnitude quake felt in Oklahoma and several other states buckled a highway and damaged a tower at St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee. Fallin says nearly 200 homes and businesses have confirmed damage and she believes individual assistance is justified.

The quake was the strongest ever recorded in Oklahoma. Tremors with magnitudes of 4.7 preceded and followed the quake.