WFLX Fox 29
July 17, 2016
The Obama 
Administration denies Governor Rick Scott’s request for a federal emergency declaration after toxic algae blooms plague the Treasure Coast.
The double red flags fly at Bathtub Beach in Stuart. A sign the algae crisis continues in Martin County.
“For nobody to be out here on a Saturday, I mean it should tell you something,” says Kevin Britton.
In a letter to the Governor, FEMA’s Administrator denied Rick Scott’s request for a federal emergency declaration.
“Supplemental federal assistance under the Stafford Act is not appropriate for this event,” said Craig Fugate.
Scott’s Press Secretary says the Governor will appeal.
“Really a disappointment,” says Mark Perry with the Florida Oceanographic Society.
Perry says the federal level needs to show interest with the algae threatening an area with national implications.
“A lot of people going out of business because of the situation, so when we have that kind of an emergency going on, that’s the federal response that we expect is for them to step up and help out,” says Perry.
Governor Rick Scott has 30 days to appeal.