Superstorm Sandy Aid Vote

Statement

Representative Mark Takano (D-Riverside) voted in favor of $9.7 billion in aid for residents affected by Superstorm Sandy. Following its passage, Takano issued the following statement:

"The havoc caused by Superstorm Sandy last October has proven to be devastating for residents on the East Coast. With damages estimated in tens of billions, the recovery effort promises to take months, if not years.

"I'm pleased to have one of my first votes be in favor of aiding those affected by Superstorm Sandy, but am disappointed at the size of this initial round of assistance. While $9.7 billion in emergency funding is going to provide some relief to those who need it, it falls well short of what is required for such an enormous disaster.

"In times of crisis, the American people have always come together for the common purpose of helping those who need it the most. In California and other regions where natural disasters are common, that courtesy has been extended time and again expeditiously. With over two months having passed since Superstorm Sandy hit, the delay in providing these funds is shameful.

"This travesty has affected thousands of Americans and while this is a good start, it is far from what is truly needed to help those who have been forced to rebuild their lives."

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