Illinois seeks federal help for local governments hit by floods

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- The state of Illinois is asking President Bush for federal aid to help local governments affected by March flooding in 21 counties recoup some of money they spent on response and recovery.

Governor Rod Blagojevich says a recent assessment of the flood's impact on southern Illinois units of local government documented more than $12 million in expenses.

Counties included in the request are: Alexander, Fayette, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Marion, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Randolph, Richland, Saline, Union, Wayne, White and Williamson.

The state already is asking Bush to reconsider the federal government's denial of disaster aid to victims of March's flooding in the southern part of the state.