WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 12, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today voted to send much-needed funding for areas impacted by recent disasters across the country. The Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act, which passed the House today, sends $36.5 billion toward hurricane relief and wildfire suppression.

“I think of what’s happened to Puerto Rico, and my heart goes out to all of the families and people whose lives were turned upside down,” said McMorris Rodgers. “And it’s not just Puerto Rico. Thousands of people in Texas, Florida, Louisiana, and the U.S. Virgin Islands also lost everything in the devastation following Hurricanes Maria, Harvey, and Irma. This aid package will help them with the long road to rebuilding and recovery.

“I’m also pleased to see $576.5 million going toward fighting the wildfires that are destroying the West. Washington state experienced devastating fires this year, and right now we’re seeing what’s happening in California, and our hearts break for them. This relief package will help fight the fires and assist in the recovery efforts.”

Yesterday, Rep. McMorris Rodgers joined Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) for a Facebook Live to talk about the recent fires and the need for this important disaster funding to help communities, like those in the Pacific Northwest, recover from and fight fires. You can watch it here:

NOTE: Tomorrow, Rep. McMorris Rodgers will join Speaker of the House Paul Ryan on a trip to Puerto Rico to see the damage and recovery efforts taking place.

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