[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 113 (Thursday, July 13, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1439]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


     EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL DISASTER 
    ASSISTANCE FOR ANTI-TERRORISM INITIATIVES FOR ASSISTANCE IN THE 
     RECOVERY FROM THE TRAGEDY THAT OCCURRED AT OKLAHOMA CITY, AND 
                          RESCISSIONS ACT 1995

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                               speech of

                       HON. ERNEST J. ISTOOK, JR.

                              of oklahoma

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 29, 1995
  Mr. ISTOOK. Mr. Speaker, Congress is aware that several downtown 
churches were severely damaged as a result of the April 19, 1995, 
terrorist bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma 
City. Among these are first United Methodist Church, First Baptist 
Church, St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral and St. Joseph's Catholic 
Church. These churches assisted in the emergency relief effort 
immediately after the bombing and one was even used as a temporary 
morgue for victims of the blast.
  These religious institutions have been informed by the Federal 
Emergency Management Agency that under current regulations they are not 
eligible for any Federal disaster assistance for the repair and 
reconstruction of their facilities. However, Congress recognizes that 
the Oklahoma City bombing is a unique case. The bombing was a single, 
man-made assault directed against our National Government. These 
churches, like the other businesses and residences in the damaged area, 
were innocent bystanders to a violent attack on the Federal Government. 
This special instance is therefore distinguished from other kinds of 
disasters in which religious buildings may be damaged. Congress thus 
agrees that religious institutions in Oklahoma City should be eligible 
for the Federal assistance provided in this bill in the same manner as 
nonprofit organizations providing public services.


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