Mitch Landrieu: “I rise provide a bit of background regarding legislation that I am introducing today. The bill that I am sending to the…”

“I rise provide a bit of background regarding legislation that I am introducing today. The bill that I am sending to the desk would provide independent colleges and universities with direct, immediate aid through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA. Additionally, the bill would assist the recovery of non- profit education institutions from the extensive damage they sustain during natural disasters. During crises, the critical role that small colleges and universities play in our communities is often overlooked or underestimated. In Louisiana, many of our colleges and universities are not only important in educating our students, but also in bolstering our economy. In my home State, this legislation would benefit Delgado Community College, Dillard University, Loyola University New Orleans, Nunez Community College, Our Lady of Holy Cross College, Southern University at New Orleans, Sowela Technical Community College, Tulane University of Louisiana, University of New Orleans, McNeese State University and Xavier University of Louisiana. Under current law, ``education'' has been omitted from the list of ``critical services'' for which facility repair assistance can be awarded directly and immediately. Until 2000, when Congress changed the law, education was always eligible for direct FEMA assistance for facility damages. This legislation simply restores education to its rightful position as a recognized critical service.…”