LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Michigan’s plea for more federal relief after the March 2025 ice storm was stopped cold on October 24, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reaffirmed its denial of certain disaster programs.

The ruling blocks additional aid for both residents and local utilities affected by the three-day storm which covered northern Michigan in ice and caused widespread power outages.

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“While the denial of additional federal aid is disappointing, Michigan has a strong foundation for recovery,”Capt. Kevin Sweeney of the Michigan State Police said.

FEMA’s decision means no Individual Assistance, which helps households with housing and personal losses, and no Public Assistance Category F, which covers permanent repairs to damaged utilities. One remaining request, however—for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding aimed at long-term risk reduction—is still under review.

Rep. Parker Fairbairn (R-Harbor Springs), who represents northern communities hit hardest by the storm, told Michigan News Source he’s frustrated but focused on state solutions.

“While I’m disappointed the federal government did not grant additional ice storm relief dollars, I have a plan being held up in the Senate that would secure the resources we need,” Fairbairn said. “The appropriate response today is not asking why the federal government didn’t bail us out but instead asking why our own Michigan Senate refuses to consider my $100 million plan that passed the state House with nearly unanimous support.”

Rep. Ken Borton (R-Gaylord), whose district also faced storm damage, echoed those concerns. “I’m very disappointed,” Borton said. “It’s now very important for the state senate to act and pass the funding request that was approved by the House earlier this year.”

President Donald J. Trump approved an initial disaster declaration on July 22, authorizing limited FEMA funding for emergency work and certain repairs in 13 counties and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. Michigan appealed for additional categories of relief on Aug. 25, but FEMA’s latest response keeps those programs off the table.