Political Quotes

“I can assure my friend and colleague from Oklahoma that the committee will continue to work with him and the people of Oklahoma in recovering from this terrible tragedy. As the Senator has noted, the committee was pleased to provide $39 million in community development funds last year to aid in the restoration of downtown Oklahoma City. In addition, the emergency supplemental appropriation last year provided $40.4 million for the replacement of the Murrah Federal Building. Additional funds have also been made available administratively through several government agencies, particularly the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Also, as can certainly be understood, only a portion of the $39 million appropriation from last year has been obligated by the city. It takes time to assess the vast damage that occurred and award the contracts for repair. Further, compliance with Federal regulations, such as prevailing wage statutes, adds to the complexity of awarding contracts. Therefore, it takes time to fully obligate these funds. Once these funds are fully expended, I assure the Senator from Oklahoma that I will reassess the remaining assistance needs for the city. I also understand that commitments have been made by the administration to Oklahoma City officials to furnish currently appropriated funds for the relief effort. FEMA has indicated that $2 million will be made available from its public assistance program for infrastructure repair.”