President Barack Obama has signed an emergency declaration for Flint, Michigan, that clears the way for federal aid to the city undergoing a drinking water crisis.
The White House issued a release Saturday calling for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to "alleviate the hardship and suffering" on residents.
Following the announcement, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder released a statement on his website:
"I appreciate the President approving my federal emergency request and supporting Flint during this critical situation," said Snyder. "I have pledged to use all state resources possible to help heal Flint, and these additional resources will greatly assist in efforts underway to ensure every resident has access to clean water resources."
Pres. Obama has approved Gov. Snyder's request for a federal emergency declaration to help #flintwater situation. https://t.co/XwmMk2PoHr— Governor Rick Snyder (@onetoughnerd) January 16, 2016
According to the statement, FEMA support will come in the form of water, water filters, filter replacements and water test kits.
Flint's city switched water supplies in 2014 while a new pipeline was under construction and the corrosive water from the Flint River leached lead from old pipes.
Snyder's people changed data to hide #FlintWater poisoning #TBATs https://t.co/iEbER2yUPy @maddow @MMFlint pic.twitter.com/gkxowE46Kn— Nancy Osborne (@NancyOsborne180) January 12, 2016
Demand #GovSnyder declare State of Emergency for allowing lead in water #flintwater https://t.co/iNFfPwA0Uf #maddow pic.twitter.com/JrEJvS0Txq— Daniel Beerthuis (@DanielBeerthuis) December 27, 2015
MUST-READ: Documents show officials filed false reports about lead testing in #FlintWater https://t.co/POroRjaZgm pic.twitter.com/iM5SEkEnYm— Progress Michigan (@ProgressMich) November 12, 2015
FEMA has been authorized to provide the support for 90 days. Direct federal funding also will be made available.
Gov. Rick Snyder requested the federal declaration Friday, saying needs "far exceed the state's capability." He says emergency measures could cost $41 million.
Additional reporting by Mashable.