we insisted that the money be distributed as between states based on damage

I think it is a relatively small number.

I have long wanted to come to Galveston as a resident of New Orleans and as a senator now from the State of Louisiana into my third term.

we have subsequently passed at least one law that will help, and if we can expand it, it would cover that instance where we have required FEMA now to basically reimburse as a whole police stations, fire stations, and public schools.

we insisted that one-third of the funds be dispersed within 60 days

I want to be very clear about one principle, that we are now using Community Development Block Grant at the federal level to try to respond to communities that are struck by disasters because the current programs are just not sufficient.

It is virtually impossible to rebuild a community without the small business base.

Thank you for your time and for your caring.

We just passed that amendment this week off the Senate floor, and we hope it stays in the bill because it will give the State of Texas a great deal more flexibility in how those Community Development Block Grant monies can be used and can…

I am going to be watching this very carefully, and we will work with our friends in Texas...

the money should come to the communities that were hurt the worst where the needs are the greatest

It is extremely important that we eventually get that law changed to authorize them to do that.

I am Senator Mary Landrieu, and I would like to call this field hearing to order.

That is our hope and intention, and I am very pleased that we have a representative from HUD on the second panel.

FEMA has been in the business of short-term emergency housing, but I put the emphasis on 'short.'

I hope that you receive this in the spirit because that is our only tool right now at the federal level.

About 20 percent of the residents of this city, representing about 4,000 families, are yet to return to the community because of all sorts of challenges associated either with housing, employment, health, or others.

Mayor, I will absolutely be in Galveston sometime soon.