[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1759]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT TO MEET IMMEDIATE NEEDS 
        ARISING FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF HURRICANE KATRINA, 2005

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                               speech of

                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 2, 2005

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support the Emergency Supplemental 
Appropriations request before us today to provide $10.5 billion in 
immediate aid to our fellow Americans who have been devastated by 
Hurricane Katrina. This $10.5 billion in emergency funding will allow 
the Department of Defense and the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
to continue the Federal Government's efforts to help the people of 
Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and other States impacted by the 
effects of Hurricane Katrina.
  I am sure that the President will be requesting additional funds in 
the near future, and I am equally sure that the Congress will respond 
as quickly to approve the additional funds as they are needed. Anyone 
watching their televisions over the last week realizes that the effects 
of Katrina have been of biblical proportions. State and local officials 
have estimated the number of deaths from Katrina to be in the 
thousands, and property damage is estimated to be in yet unknown 
billions of dollars.
  This is a national, natural disaster, and as such it deserves a swift 
and effective national response. We as a nation must come together to 
help our neighbors who have suffered such devastating losses.
  It is the proper role of the Federal Government to provide that 
national response to such a national emergency. That is why I am 
pleased that the Congress has acted so swiftly to provide this 
immediate emergency funding of $10.5 billion. And we as a nation, stand 
ready to provide additional aid to the people affected by Hurricane 
Katrina.
  Once again, Mr. Speaker, I add my support to the swift passage of 
this down payment of $10.5 billion for recovery efforts from Hurricane 
Katrina.

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