[StBernard] Governor Blanco: $4.2 billion one step closer to funding The Road Home

[Westley Annis]

Governor Blanco: $4.2 billion one step closer to funding The Road Home 

"Today I am encouraged that the entire $4.2 billion in the supplemental bill
moves on to the U.S. Senate. This is an important step toward fully funding
Louisiana's needs to repair and rebuild those parts of the state devastated
by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. 

"I am pleased that the U.S. House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to
approve the supplemental bill as it contains important funding for
Louisiana, including $4.2 billion in Community Development Block Grants for
our housing plan called The Road Home, which will lead to a safer, stronger,
smarter Louisiana.

"We know that the legislative process may be a long and arduous one, but we
are encouraged by this positive step forward. This gives hope to the
hardworking people of Louisiana who are struggling to get their lives back
in order. There is no single source of support for our recovery - it comes
from the extraordinary efforts of local, state and national individuals and
organizations, as well as the federal government, which has contributed
significant resources to this process so far.

"But to ensure we can finish the job, we are counting on Congress to pass
and the President to sign this measure. By funding The Road Home the people
of our state will have the means to rebuild their homes and neighborhoods. 

"Our plan - The Road Home - is a model based on reinvestment, not
reimbursement. We want Louisiana citizens to reinvest, rebound and rebuild
safely and smartly at home.

"Again, we know this is just the first of many hurdles we must overcome in
completing the road to recovery. We are grateful to all of those in
Washington who have voted to help Louisiana make itself whole and we look
forward to working with both parties, both houses of Congress as well as
with the White House as the bill moves through the legislative process."


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The Louisiana Disaster Recovery Foundation Louisiana's Fund for Louisiana's
People www.louisianahelp.org