WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) today lent her strong support to a $10.5 billion emergency spending measure to bolster relief efforts throughout the Gulf coast.  The measure was approved in the U.S. Senate overnight and in the U.S. House of Representatives today, both by unanimous consent.

 

“There is still a very serious situation unfolding in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
President Bush has promised assistance in any way these states ask, and Congress must fully fund this enormous relief operation. $10.5 billion is a substantial sum, but it is only the beginning.  More important is the message that we are totally committed to immediate relief efforts.  Lives still hang in the balance amid the many challenges in New Orleans and throughout the region.”

 

“I also want to say that I am thoroughly disappointed that some have tried to take advantage of this tragedy to bicker and to make divisive remarks.  The nation should be united right now, and most Americans have shown their best qualities in their efforts to assist the relief mission.  But partisanship, blame, and vitriol only undermine the good work so many Americans are doing on a volunteer basis.  An enormous, widespread, deadly catastrophe has struck our nation.  It is going to take all of our best efforts to recover, rebuild and replant.”

 

“My heartfelt thanks go out so many Missourians who have made monetary contributions and charitable donations to the relief mission.  My full support is behind the men and women of the National Guard, emergency response teams, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and every citizen who has left Missouri to aid the recovery.  Please keep praying, please keep helping, and God bless you all for your good efforts.”