Etheridge Lauds Passage of $10.5 Billion Aid Bill for Hurricane Katrina

News Release
Congressman Bob Etheridge
North Carolina

September 2, 2005

Contact: Joanne Peters
Phone: (202) 225-4531

Etheridge Lauds Passage of $10.5 Billion Aid Bill for Hurricane Katrina

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) released the following statement today as Congress passed a bill providing $10.5 billion in emergency appropriations to aid in the Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts.

"Hurricane Katrina has caused unprecedented destruction to our neighbors to the south. We, in North Carolina, understand the destructive power of hurricanes and floods, and our thoughts and prayers are with all the victims who suffered through the storm and suffer in its aftermath," said Etheridge.

"I am pleased that Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi called for Congress to reconvene early in order to provide the needed personnel, equipment and resources for this disaster. We must immediately devote the personnel, resources and funding necessary to help these people get the food, health care and safe shelter they need before rebuilding can begin and this $10.5 billion is a good start.

"The recovery from the Hurricane Katrina disaster will be long and difficult. I commend all the brave first responders, FEMA employees and volunteers with the Red Cross and other charitable agencies as they work to provide relief to the hurricane victims. People's lives have been changed forever, and the American people have responded with their money, time and prayers to help our neighbors."

North Carolinians can visit Etheridge's website, www.house.gov/etheridge, for information on how they can help with the recovery efforts.

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