[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 35 (Monday, September 5, 2005)]
[Pages 1338-1339]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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

[[Page 1339]]

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