Rep. Takano Statement on Disaster Funding Bill
Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released the following statement after voting in support of the Disaster Supplemental Funding Bill, which provides emergency funding for disasters caused by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, as well as the California wildfires.
“Over the past several weeks, wildfires in California have damaged more than 21,000 homes and more than 2,800 businesses. The total cost of that damage is estimated to top $9 billion, and families across the state are still assessing the full extent of their losses. With all Californians in mind, I cast my vote in favor of the disaster supplemental funding bill put on the House Floor this afternoon.
“However, the emergency funding provided in this bill falls far short of what is required. Three months ago, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands suffered a natural disaster of historic proportions. This legislation does not reflect the long road ahead to help those territories rebuild, nor does it reflect the serious financial challenges they currently face.
“Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands deserve the same level of assistance that any other American community would receive. I intend to stand with my colleagues to fight for these vulnerable communities that have already suffered incredible hardship and tragedy.”
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