    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book II)]
    [September 1, 2005]
    [Pages 1383-1384]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a
    Supplemental Appropriation for Response and Recovery Efforts in Areas
    Struck by Hurricane Katrina
    September 1, 2005

    Dear Mr. Speaker:
        As I informed the Nation yesterday, we are dealing with one of the
    worst natural disasters in our country's history. Residents of the Gulf
    Coast States affected by the hurricane have lost loved ones, have lost
    homes, and have been displaced from their communities. My Administration
    is committed to ensuring that they will have the full support of the
    Federal Government.
        Due to the catastrophic nature of Hurricane Katrina, I am asking the
    Congress to consider expeditiously the enclosed request, totaling $10.5
    billion, for an emergency FY 2005 supplemental appropriation for the
    Departments of Homeland Security and Defense. These funds will ensure
    that Federal response and recovery efforts continue uninterrupted.
        I hereby designate this proposal in the amount requested herein as
    an emergency requirement. This request responds to urgent needs
    associated with immediate response and recovery efforts associated with
    Hurricane Katrina in Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and other affected
    areas.
        The enclosed request requires immediate action by the Congress to
    ensure that the Federal response to this disaster continues
    uninterrupted. I anticipate making a further request in the coming weeks
    that will provide for a comprehensive response and recovery effort after
    fully assessing the impact of the hurricane. The details of this request
    are set forth in the enclosed letter from the Director of the Office of
    Management and Budget.
             Sincerely,

                                                              George W. Bush

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