The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday approved a $50.5 billion relief package for the victims of Hurricane Sandy, ending weeks of political wrangling between Democrats and Republicans.
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy — all of whom were sharply critical of the Congressional delay — released the following statement regarding passage today of the disaster relief package by the House of Representatives:
“We are grateful to those members of Congress who today pulled together in a unified, bipartisan coalition to assist millions of their fellow Americans in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut at their greatest time of need. The tradition of Congress being there and providing support for Americans during times of crisis, no matter where they live across this great country, lives on in today’s vote in the House of Representatives. We anticipate smooth passage when this package moves back to the Senate for final approval and for this long-awaited relief to finally make its way to our residents.”
The House approved the aid in two parts — $17 billion in funds to cover immediate disaster relief needs and $33.5 billion in longer-term reconstruction funds, according to Reuters.
As changes were made to the bill, the only real 'loser' in Connecticut is the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge in Westport. An amendment cut $9.8 million slated to help repair damage to the refuge, according to ct.mirror.com.
