Statement of U.S. Rep. Gregory W. Meeks on the Passing of $9.7B in Sandy Relief

January 4, 2013

Statement of U.S. Rep. Gregory W. Meeks on the Passing of $9.7B in Sandy Relief

Excerpt: It is disappointing, disgusting, and frustrating that the House Republican leadership continues to play politics in delaying a vote to fully fund disaster relief.  

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Meeks (NY-05) released the following statement after the House passing of $9.7 Billion in Supestorm Sandy relief:

“Belated as the bill may be, I am pleased the House was able to finally act today on a piece of the vital Superstorm Sandy disaster relief legislation to increase borrowing authority by FEMA on behalf of the National Flood Insurance Program.  This action, however, is woefully insufficient in addressing the significant concerns and needs of millions affected by last fall’s storm.  New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut residents continue to suffer as vital reconstruction and relief programs remain unfunded.  This includes funding for the Army Corps of Engineers, who will work to protect New York’s coastlines and coastal communities; the SBA, to provide loans to help small businesses; FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund; Community Development Block Grants; and a number of other programs, including the National Park Service that will handle debris removal.
 
“It is disappointing, disgusting, and frustrating that the House Republican leadership continues to play politics in delaying a vote to fully fund disaster relief.   I hope sincerely that the Republican leadership honors its commitment to holding a vote on the rest of disaster relief funding on January 15, for we must act swiftly to ensure millions do not continue to suffer under the yoke of partisanship.” [End]