WASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, Representative Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement after the 113^th Congress passed a bill which would provide $9.7 billion, a portion of the original $60 billion aid package to assist NY, NJ, and CT with Superstorm Sandy recovery efforts.

In a 354 to 67 vote, the measure was approved and will enable the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide flood insurance assistance to residents and small business owners who were affected by the storm.

“After seventy days of inaction, Congress took a step forward in passing crucial aid for Superstorm Sandy victims. Today, I urge my colleagues to act swiftly and ensure the remaining $51 billion reaches those who need it most,” stated Representative Yvette D. Clarke.

“The families in my district and the States of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut are suffering. There are several homes which remain without power due to the hazard presented by the corrosion of electrical infrastructure. Many residents have had to seek shelter elsewhere after their homes were condemned. The unabated growth of mold and mildew and the cost of the gutting and renovation have exceeded the coverage provided under the homeowners’ insurance.

“Time is running out for the women and men who are calling on us to fulfill our duty and pass legislation that will help them rebuild,” concluded Representative Clarke.

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U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke is a member of the House Small Business Committee and the Homeland Security Committee, where she is the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies. She represents several neighborhoods in central and southern Brooklyn, NY which includes Brownsville, Crown Heights, East Flatbush, Flatbush, Gerritsen Beach, Madison, Midwood, Ocean Hill, parts of Park Slope and Flatlands, Prospect Heights, Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, Sheepshead Bay, and Windsor Terrace.