    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book II)]
    [December 16, 2005]
    [Page 1862]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Congressional Passage of Legislation To Help the Gulf Coast
    Rebuild Following Hurricanes Rita and Katrina
    December 16, 2005

        I commend the Congress for passing an important part of my
    comprehensive plan to help the citizens of the gulf coast rebuild their
    lives and their livelihoods. The private sector is critical in the
    rebuilding effort, and these tax incentives will help boost investment,
    get people back to work, and return the region to prosperity. Americans
    will continue to stand with our fellow citizens in the gulf coast
    region. I look forward to signing this bill into law.