[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 136 (Wednesday, September 14, 2011)]
[House]
[Page H6150]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1220
                      DISASTER RELIEF SUPPLEMENTAL

  (Mr. SIRES asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. SIRES. Madam Speaker, 2 weeks ago, Hurricane Irene ravaged the 
east coast, including the State of New Jersey. Earlier this year, 
tornados leveled parts of the Midwest, and now Texas is experiencing 
one of the worst wildfires in its history. Furthermore, on the heels of 
Hurricane Irene, Tropical Storm Lee hit New Jersey, causing more damage 
and forcing more people from their homes. Homes have been destroyed, 
businesses are suffering, and many areas are still covered in water.
  While many major disaster declarations have been made, the 
availability of Federal assistance remains uncertain. Today, I rise to 
ask my colleagues to work in a bipartisan manner to immediately pass 
emergency disaster relief legislation to support recovery efforts. 
Communities across the country have witnessed unthinkable destruction 
and endured great loss, and it is the Federal Government's 
responsibility to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund to ensure that 
these communities receive help in their time of need.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting supplemental disaster 
relief. We must come together now to provide disaster assistance to 
these devastated areas.

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