Continuing Resolution Keeps the Focus on Job Creation, Disaster Relief and Cutting Government Spending

CONTACT: Anne Marie Malecha, 202.225.4876

Aderholt: Continuing Resolution Keeps the Focus on Job Creation, Disaster Relief and Cutting Government Spending

Washington, D.C.— Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement today regarding the passage of a Continuing Resolution (CR) that for a second year in a row cuts spending, adds a much needed $3.65 billion for ongoing disaster relief efforts and keeps the government running until November 18:

“The Continuing Resolution passed by the House today is a critical piece of legislation that once again cuts spending below last year’s levels, while providing vital disaster relief funding and prevents a government shutdown,” said Aderholt. “The Senate and the President must look past partisan politics, avoid brinksmanship and move swiftly on this measure to ensure uninterrupted government operation.”

“Since the House passed the FY12 Homeland Security Appropriations bill in June, which included an additional $1 billion for FEMA’s disaster relief efforts, continued inaction by the Senate and the Administration has allowed the Disaster Relief Fund to reach critically and historically low levels. On the heels of five months of devastating natural disasters across the country, including tornadoes in my home state of Alabama, the DRF has less than $250 million in its coffers.”

“Recent issues with FEMA’s storm shelter policy have also brought to light the need for additional oversight, to ensure policies and procedures are best benefitting disaster victims and taxpayers alike. The CR provides a much needed, immediate $1 billion infusion, as well as an additional $2.65 billion to fund FEMA’s disaster relief efforts over the next fiscal year. This bill also provides Congress with the time to conduct greater oversight and ample time to evaluate and accurately account for damages from the most recent disaster, Hurricane Irene.”

“We must work together to get our economy back on track and remove government barriers to private-sector job growth. The American people do not want or deserve the dangerous instability of a government shutdown or any more unnecessary holdups in disaster recovery efforts,” concluded Aderholt.

Aderholt currently serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security for the powerful House Appropriations Committee, is a member of the Committee’s Commerce, Justice and Science; and Agriculture Subcommittees, and also serves on the Helsinki Commission.

For more information about Aderholt’s work in Congress visit www.aderholt.house.gov.