Illinois' senators and Gov. Pat Quinn are denouncing a decision by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to deny disaster aid to southern Illinois counties ravaged by tornadoes.

A powerful Feb. 29 tornado left seven people dead in the southern Illinois community of Harrisburg. Quinn's office had sought a major disaster declaration for the state and assistance for several southern counties. In denying the request, FEMA said the damage was not "beyond the capabilities of the State, affected local governments and voluntary agencies."

Sens. Dick Durbin and Mark Kirk said Sunday they have requested a meeting with FEMA leadership and would seek to overturn the ruling. Quinn's office has 30 days to appeal the decision.