House Adopts Jindal Amendment
House Adopts Jindal Amendment
Jindal provision will improve response and communications during natural disasters
The House of Representatives today adopted an amendment offered by Congressman Bobby Jindal (LA-01) to strengthen military support and coordination in response to natural disasters. The amendment addresses a large hole in the nation's emergency response capabilities that was highlighted by the inefficient, bureaucratic response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
"The National Guard and active-duty military response saved lives and provided much-needed assistance and medical care to thousands of people during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita," Jindal said. "Yet too often, there was limited communication and coordination between the troops on the ground and the state and federal government. My amendment will force all agencies involved with recovery operations to create a detailed plan so that the confusion of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita will not be repeated."
Congressman Jindal offered his amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 5122), a bill that authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense. Missing from the bill was preparation for an emergency response in which the military may be involved.
"We have seen all too well in Louisiana what happens when we do not have a legitimate emergency response plan in place," Jindal said. "The amendment I offered today forces the federal and state government to plan ahead in the event of a natural disaster. The bureaucracy at all levels needs to learn from its mistakes, not repeat them, and I am hopeful that this amendment will help the federal and state governments be better prepared in the future."
Congressman Jindal's amendment instructs the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with the Department of Homeland Security and state governments to develop detailed operational plans regarding the use of the military during natural disasters. These response plans will allow for better coordination of response activities and a clear line of communication and responsibility in the event of a disaster.
The overall bill passed the House of Representatives and now awaits action in the U.S. Senate.
http://jindal.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=43549