[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 169 (Thursday, October 19, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1387]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR DISASTER RELIEF REQUIREMENTS 
                               ACT, 2017

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                               speech of

                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 12, 2017

  Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the disaster supplement 
because it provides critical funds to help rebuild communities in the 
U.S. states and territories, including Puerto Rico. Although I support 
this bill, I am concerned it is not enough. For example, it fails to 
provide funds for Community Development Block Grants, critical health 
care needs, Social Services Block Grants and public housing assistance.
  I am proud to represent one of the largest Puerto Rican communities 
in the United States. Since the hurricane, I have worked closely with 
federal and state authorities to ensure help is delivered to the island 
in an efficient manner. In addition, I have worked closely with Puerto 
Rican communities in my Congressional district to answer questions and 
help them reconnect with friends and family. We need to assure people 
in these devastated areas Congress will stand with them in the short 
and long term--provide comfort and immediate needs now and also funds 
to rebuild infrastructure and restore and strengthen their economy that 
will sustain well into the future.
  As these funds are dispersed, it is imperative they are managed 
responsibly so storm victims don't become targets of shady outsiders or 
crooked business owners.
  This week, President Trump once again let down the people of Puerto 
Rico by announcing he plans to prematurely pull the military, FEMA and 
other critical agency support from the island. This approach is 
irresponsible and dangerous. The island and its people are still 
fragile and need to rebuild, not be burdened with further anxiety and 
uncertainty.

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