Albio Sires: “2 weeks ago, Hurricane Irene ravaged the east coast, including the State of New Jersey. Earlier this year, tornados…”

“2 weeks ago, Hurricane Irene ravaged the east coast, including the State of New Jersey. Earlier this year, tornados leveled parts of the Midwest, and now Texas is experiencing one of the worst wildfires in its history. Furthermore, on the heels of Hurricane Irene, Tropical Storm Lee hit New Jersey, causing more damage and forcing more people from their homes. Homes have been destroyed, businesses are suffering, and many areas are still covered in water. While many major disaster declarations have been made, the availability of Federal assistance remains uncertain. Today, I rise to ask my colleagues to work in a bipartisan manner to immediately pass emergency disaster relief legislation to support recovery efforts. Communities across the country have witnessed unthinkable destruction and endured great loss, and it is the Federal Government's responsibility to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund to ensure that these communities receive help in their time of need. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting supplemental disaster relief. We must come together now to provide disaster assistance to these devastated areas. ____________________”