G. K. Butterfield: “I am very disappointed, to say the least, that significant cuts are being proposed to reduce funding for the U.S. Army…”

“I am very disappointed, to say the least, that significant cuts are being proposed to reduce funding for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. But with that in mind, I've come to the floor this evening with an idea that I think mitigates the effects of those cuts. I will begin by saying that my amendment has no cost associated with it. It simply expresses the sense of Congress that the Army Corps of Engineers should consider and prioritize projects that mitigate the danger of natural disasters. Eastern North Carolina is especially vulnerable to extreme weather events, and other States have the same vulnerability. The Corps works to improve the safety of communities near the Neuse River in Goldsboro, North Carolina, and in Princeville, where Hurricane Floyd all but destroyed the town because of the rapidly rising and poorly contained Tar River. My amendment would give added confidence to my constituents in North Carolina and to many of your constituents, as well, that the Federal Government is doing everything possible to protect and reinforce communities and neighborhood from natural disasters. For several years, the Nation has witnessed the widespread devastation caused by these disasters. Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Irene are just two examples. Communities affected by natural disasters like those in my district face a long recovery filled with hardship and painful dilemmas.…”