Congressman Steven Horsford Votes for Disaster Relief in Puerto Rico
Washington, D.C. — Today, February 7, 2020, Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) voted to send emergency supplemental aid to Puerto Rico in the aftermath of multiple devastating earthquakes. The legislation provides $4.67 billion in assistance to Puerto Rico, with significant funding for educational needs, repairs to transportation infrastructure, and community development activities.
"The people of Puerto Rico deserve to know that their government will stand with them during this devastating time," Congressman Horsford said. "While still struggling to recover from Hurricanes Maria and Irma, Puerto Rico has been rocked by numerous earthquakes, with thousands of families forced from their homes, schools flattened, and roads and infrastructure severely damaged. We must stand by our fellow Americans during their time of need."
The emergency supplemental also includes accountability measures to address the Trump administration's illegal withholding of Puerto Rico relief, such as detailed spending plans and requirements for the timely release of funds.
Among its provisions, the emergency supplemental includes:
- $6.75 million for technical assistance to conduct earthquake risk analysis, enhance long-term energy planning, improve energy sector situational awareness, and strengthen cybersecurity of critical infrastructure;
- $15 million for technical assistance to enhance real-time situational awareness and continued recovery support of the electric grid;
- $100 million to meet the educational needs of individuals affected by recent disasters and emergencies;
- $1.25 billion for repairs to road systems damaged by recent disasters and emergencies;
- $3.26 billion in Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery funds for disaster relief, long-term recovery, restoration of infrastructure and housing, economic revitalization, and mitigation; and
- $40 million for disaster nutrition assistance in Puerto Rico.