[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 103 (Friday, July 12, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1283]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             THE IMPORTANCE OF NATURAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE

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                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 12, 1996

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express the importance of 
natural disaster assistance. Our dear friend, Mr. Emerson introduced 
the Natural Disaster Protection partnership Act the Congress, and I am 
pleased to be one of 267 cosponsors. This much needed legislation will 
provide for an expanded Federal program of hazard mitigation, relief, 
and insurance against the risk of catastrophic natural disasters.
  To understand the importance of this legislation, one need only be 
reminded of the devastating effects of Hurricane Andrew that struck 
Florida in 1992 and Hurricane Hugo in 1989. In Florida, many insurance 
companies are canceling insurance policies.
  Currently, Hurricane Bertha continues it uncertain path along the 
eastern seaboard. Hopefully, Hurricane Bertha will not cause any damage 
and dissipate at sea.
  While we here in the United States are fortunate that Hurricane 
Bertha has not yet made landfall, I want to highlight the importance 
and need for the Natural Disaster Partnership Act.
  H.R. 1856 will promote stability in the insurance industry, encourage 
personal responsibility, and reduce Federal disaster relief costs. I 
urge my colleagues to ensure passage of this important bill.

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