California Democrat Criticizes FEMA Over Denial of Assistance Claims

Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.), whose district has been impacted by the Eaton Fire, expressed frustration with FEMA for reportedly rejecting disaster assistance claims due to missing insurance information.

Chu, representing a district with widespread fire damage, criticized the agency’s response and urged them to reassess their process.

In an interview on Tuesday, Chu acknowledged her constituents’ concerns. “I’ve heard complaints that FEMA is denying approvals or issuing non-approvals despite people signing up on the disasterassistance.gov site as instructed,” she said.

Chu emphasized that FEMA has the resources to assist but needs to address its approach.

Chu encouraged residents facing denials to persist in seeking help. She advised them to call FEMA directly or visit the disaster resource center newly established at Pasadena City College.

“They can go there to find out what’s going on with their application,” Chu said. She also noted the center can help residents replace essential documents lost during the fires.

“Many people fled their homes with just the clothes on their backs, losing all their documents, which were burned in the fires.”

When asked why FEMA denies claims over incomplete information, Chu suggested the agency might prefer issuing rejections rather than marking applications as pending. “I think they’ve decided it’s better to say ‘not approved’ than to leave it unresolved, but that approach is wrong,” Chu explained.

Chu revealed she had raised these concerns with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell during a discussion Monday night. “I urged FEMA to change their system.

After someone’s life has been devastated and they’re trying to recover, the last thing they need is an erroneous denial message. It’s not right,” she said.

The Eaton Fire has left many residents struggling to rebuild their lives, with FEMA’s assistance process adding to their challenges.

Chu’s call for reforms highlights the importance of ensuring timely and effective disaster relief for affected communities.