INDIANAPOLIS (November 8, 2005) ? Governor Mitch Daniels received word tonight that President George W. Bush signed the disaster declaration that will lead to federal assistance for Hoosier families in two counties in Southwest Indiana affected by tornadoes and severe storms two days ago.

Daniels sent a letter to the President requesting assistance for the residents on Monday (Nov. 7).

?We appreciate FEMA?s prompt response. The people I met today on the streets of Newburgh and Evansville are ready to move forward with the reconstruction of their homes and their lives. This should allow us to assist them without delay,? said Daniels, who made his second visit to the affected area today.

The action by the President makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Warrick and Vanderburgh counties.

The declaration means that residents are eligible for Individual Assistance Programs, which include disaster housing, disaster unemployment assistance, crisis counseling, individual and house programs and other needs assistance, as well as hazard mitigation and Small Business Administration Disaster Loans.

The governor is also expected to ask for public assistance, which, if granted, would provide reimbursement for state and local expenses.