Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from Puerto Rico (Miss Gonzalez-Colon). Miss GONZALEZ-COLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Senate amendment to H.R. 1917, the Hazard Eligibility and Local Projects Act, introduced by my colleague, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher from Texas, and which I am a proud cosponsor. The reason for that is that this bipartisan bill supports our communities with their preparation and response efforts to any disasters. Specifically, it will make them eligible for certain Federal disaster mitigation assistance for projects that began prior to submitting a request for assistance. The Senate amendment builds on this sound work by including a 3-year sunset clause that will allow Congress to assess the use of this authority and flexibility moving forward. We need to support our constituents in their efforts to safeguard our communities against any disasters. In my district, Puerto Rico, and in several others across the country, we know all too well the impact certain disasters may have on our health, economy, and of course, everyday life. This bill will support mitigation and related initiatives prior to the disaster taking place. As such, it reduces the need for post- disaster response funding and ensures the continuity of mitigation work once it has started. Timely mitigation measures create and promote resiliency and lead to a faster recovery. As a cosponsor of H.R. 1917, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, as amended.”