N.J. Gov. Christie: Federal Grants for Homeowners May Still Take Months

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says that he expects federally funded grants for New Jersey business owners hit by Superstorm Sandy may arrive soon.

But he says homeowners may have to wait until July to see their grants because of greater environmental controls over rebuilding.

Christie said at a news conference in Long Branch on April 18 that he’s hoping to get approval by this week for the state’s plan to distribute the first $1.8 billion in federal storm aid to cover unmet needs.

He says applications should be available soon after that for both homeowners and businesses.

He says that home rebuilding plans need state and federal environmental approval before federal money can be used on them.