Pelosi: Speaker Boehner Must Allow Vote on Bipartisan Senate Disaster Relief Bill

Contact: Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after the Senate passed legislation to provide $6.9 billion in disaster relief aid. The bill passed by a vote of 62 to 37, with bipartisan support. Tomorrow, Leader Pelosi will visit East Haven, Connecticut, with Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro to view storm damage from Hurricane Irene and meet with local officials.

“Families across the country have endured hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and wildfires. Federal, state, and local officials have prepared for these natural disasters, responded immediately, and assisted those left to clean up the damage.

“In these times of crisis, it is our responsibility in Congress to support local communities and aid in their recovery. Today, the Senate upheld its responsibility; now the House must do the same.

“House Republicans are setting a dangerous precedent by requiring that disaster aid be offset, especially when Americans are struggling to rebuild their homes, businesses, and communities. Speaker Boehner must allow a vote on the Senate-passed bipartisan bill without further delay.”

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