Rebuilding the Gulf Coast
One of the most pressing issues facing our state is the rebuilding and renewal of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. As a member of the House, I was a part of the bipartisan team that worked to produce much-needed appropriations and economic development incentives for South Mississippi and other areas impacted by Katrina. Now in the Senate, I am actively partnering with Senator Cochran and our colleagues in the House to ensure that South Mississippi is built back bigger and better than before. I have visited the Coast countless times since becoming Mississippi’s Junior Senator. Earlier this year, I delivered my maiden speech on the Senate floor about the ongoing need for this Congress to finish its job of helping the Gulf Coast fully recover.
I have introduced a provision to extend tax incentives included in the 2005 GO Zone legislation. My provision was approved by the Senate, and I am working to ensure it is signed by the President into law. By extending these tax provisions, more people who want to rebuild along the Gulf Coast will be able to take advantage of the construction incentives included in the original GO Zone legislation. This should help thousands of people still struggling two and a half years after Katrina to rebuild their lives.
I also understand the enormous challenge posed to South Mississippians by the cost of insurance. To help address this problem, I have joined with Representative Taylor, Senator Cochran, and other Gulf Coast colleagues in working to make multiple peril coverage available under the National Flood Insurance Program. This would allow homeowners to have both wind and flood coverage under one policy, providing a more affordable and dependable way to protect property from the damage of future storms or hurricanes.
My offices in Gulfport, Pascagoula, and Washington are working hard to help cut through FEMA red tape, speed-up Corps of Engineers permits, provide funding to rebuild the barrier islands, and tackle scores of other issues affecting Coastal residents.
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