(Washington) - Last night Congressman John B. Larson issued the following statement upon learning the House Republican Leadership would adjourn the 112th Congress without taking up the Hurricane Sandy Aid relief package:

"The American people deserve better from their government.

"Earlier tonight, the House came together to approve a bipartisan package to help us avert the fiscal cliff. I had hoped that this bipartisan spirit would continue so that we could also take action to help the thousands of Americans still attempting to recover from Superstorm Sandy. Unfortunately, we've just learned that the Republican leaders have chosen to instead turn their backs on the affected states and adjourn the 112th Congress.

"I am deeply disappointed in the Republican Leaders decision. Thousands of Americans in Connecticut, New Jersey and New York are struggling to recover from the most destructive storm to hit the East Coast in more than 80 years. The American people deserve the assurance that when disaster strikes, their government will be there to provide the assistance needed to rebuild and recover. Unfortunately, the Republican Leaders have proven that this is not the case.

"Earlier this week, the Senate approved a bipartisan measure that would provide the funding needed for our states to recover. The House has an obligation to consider that legislation, and the Republican leadership's decision not to is deeply disappointing.

"I hope they will reconsider. But whether in this Congress or the next, I will continue to fight for the aid our states need to recover."

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