On the recordOctober 2, 2017
It is my great honor to rise today to anchor this CBC Special Order hour. Today, Monday, October 2, members of the Congressional Black Caucus will be speaking on the floor about the devastating impact of natural disasters, particularly hurricanes, and the critical role of the Federal Government's response. In the wake of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and now Maria, the Federal Government has already deployed assets to affected regions, from HHS public health resources, the Coast Guard, the Urban Search and Rescue Task Force, to Corps of Engineers flood-fighting projects. In the coming weeks and months, additional resources will help shelter displaced Americans and get businesses back on their feet. Congress must also ensure that the Federal response to these disasters is just and equitable, and that communities of color are not directly or indirectly harmed by recovery efforts. During this time, we will hear from other members of the Congressional Black Caucus and its friends to discuss this issue. For the next 60 minutes, we have a chance to speak directly to the American people on issues of great importance to the Congressional Black Caucus, Congress, the constituents we represent, and all Americans. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Payne), from the city of Newark.
