"This Natural Catastrophe Demands a National Response"

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement this afternoon regarding consideration of a $10 billion emergency supplemental spending bill for disaster relief in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, which have been crippled by Hurricane Katrina.  The supplemental spending bill is expected to be on the House Floor on Friday.

"Our hearts go out to all of the victims of this horrific natural catastrophe.  It is absolutely imperative that the United States Congress immediately respond with the emergency assistance that is necessary to help the federal government meet the critical needs of our citizens in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

"Time is of the essence, and I am pleased that Congress has chosen to act now rather than next week.  This natural catastrophe demands a national response."