Political Quotes

“I want to bring to the administration's attention an issue of vital importance to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. As you know, FEMA provides crucial financial assistance to eligible individuals, households and to local and State governments following a disaster. Many of FEMA's programs require local governments or States to provide a 25-percent match. I commend President Bush's decision to waive the matching requirements for certain FEMA programs for 60 days. Given the unprecedented destruction resulting from Hurricane Katrina, however, I call on President Bush to immediately direct FEMA to reimburse all eligible recipients the full 100 percent of costs eligible under FEMA's various relief programs for as long as necessary. This waiver should apply to all entities that are providing assistance in the entire gulf coast area impacted by Hurricane Katrina. As seems obvious to all, 60 days will simply not provide enough time for local and State governments to get back on their feet. Leaders from the municipalities and States devastated by Katrina should not be concerned with finding revenue to match Federal funding during this time of crisis. Federal aid should flow unimpeded. Does the majority leader agree with me?”