Maryland’s new State Disaster Recovery Fund will deliver its first-ever award — $459,375 to Allegany County — to help residents recover from devastating flooding earlier this spring.
For the first time, Maryland will deliver direct relief through the new State Disaster Recovery Fund (SDRF) to help residents recover from a local disaster.
Governor Moore announced this week that Allegany County will receive $459,375 to support households impacted by the May 13 flooding.
MACo and the County Emergency Managers Affiliate led the effort to create the SDRF as a reliable tool for local disaster recovery. Before its establishment, counties had no consistent way to secure State support after smaller-scale disasters. The SDRF allows local governments to act quickly, delivering aid without waiting for uncertain or delayed federal assistance.
The SDRF fills a longstanding gap by enabling the State to support residents, businesses, and local governments when local resources are insufficient and federal aid is unavailable. This award highlights the importance of a flexible, State-supported recovery tool that counties have identified as a critical need.
In 2023, with MACo’s support, the General Assembly passed legislation (HB 789/SB 650) to establish the SDRF. Although the fund lacks a dedicated revenue source and remains underfunded, lawmakers passed follow-up legislation in 2025 (HB 865) to streamline transfers into the fund during emergencies, ensuring support can reach communities when it’s needed most.
Allegany County submitted a formal request to the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) after documenting damages that exceeded its ability to respond. MDEM worked closely with local officials to approve the award and coordinate recovery assistance.
The flooding, driven by a stationary low-pressure system, caused Georges Creek to overflow, damaging more than 200 homes and businesses across Allegany County. Westernport experienced some of the most severe impacts, including evacuations and widespread property loss.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support provided by the State of Maryland throughout every phase of our disaster recovery efforts,” said Allegany County Commission President David J. Caporale. “The comprehensive assistance from multiple state departments has been extraordinary, and this monetary award through the new Disaster Recovery Program is both timely and impactful.”
He added, “As the first recipients of this program, we recognize the significance of this moment, and we are committed to putting these resources to immediate use to help our neighbors and communities rebuild stronger than before.”
MACo will continue to advocate for long-term SDRF funding to ensure every Maryland county can respond and recover when disaster strikes.
Previous Conduit Street Coverage
Governor Moore Declares Emergency After Historic Western Maryland Floods
Conduit Street Podcast: Disaster Dollars in Danger — Federal Funding Fades, County Risks Rise
County Emergency Managers to Congress: Protect FEMA, Restore BRIC
FEMA Cancels Resilience Grants, Leaving Counties at Risk
Counties Embrace Funding Transfer Mechanism To Streamline Emergency Response
County Emergency Managers to Governor: Please Prioritize Disaster Recovery Funding In FY25 Budget
MACo Supports Bill to Streamline Community Resources in Times of Crisis
