Mark Begich actually said...

"The new authorities granted to tribes through the Sandy Recovery Improvement Act allow for major disaster declarations to be made directly to the President without having to go through governors."

"In recognizing the challenges of tribal communities as they prepare, respond to and recover from various disasters requires collaboration and cooperation."

"Can you tell me, is FEMA at this point now fully staffed and organized to really move forward on a sustainable relationship with tribes, not only in Alaska but throughout the Country?"

"To minimize loss, we must take a proactive approach when dealing with natural catastrophes."