Washington, Jan 1 -
House Appropriations Chairman Hal Rogers (R-KY) today released legislation to provide needed funding for Hurricane Sandy relief and recovery. The base bill totals $27 billion, and will provide funding to meet immediate and critical needs for Sandy victims and their communities.
The statement by Chairman Rogers follows:
"Given the size and scope of the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy, it is essential that Congress provide the victims of this storm and their communities with the necessary federal aid as soon as possible. It is crystal clear that the recovery from this terrible hurricane is going to take months and years, not days and weeks. To this end, the legislation released today will provide the aid needed for immediate relief, while also beginning the process of meeting long-term recovery needs.
“However, as we embark on these recovery efforts, it is essential that Congress make responsible decisions to get the most out of each and every recovery dollar. We’ve included important oversight measures and reporting requirements in this legislation to prevent abuse and ensure federal agencies are using these funds in a responsible, effective way.
“This is not the first major disaster to hit our nation, and unfortunately, it will not be the last. As a nation, we have come together again and again to help victims of catastrophes across the country recover after storms, droughts, fires, and floods. Hurricane Sandy has brought much of the Northeast region to its knees, and it is once again our duty to help our people get back on their feet."