Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Homeland Security and Judiciary Committees, released the following statement today commending the United States Senate’s passage of legislation providing another $7.4 billion in emergency relief for Hurricane Harvey:

“Once again, I am delighted to see bipartisan cooperation to advance legislation providing emergency relief funds to those areas devastated by Hurricane Harvey. The U.S. Senate’s passage of the aid package marks a crucial step in helping seniors and the economically disadvantaged secure housing when they need it most.

“The Senate aid package appropriates an additional $7.4 billion for Community Development Block Grant funding, adding to the $7.84 billion in emergency relief already approved by the House. The funding is a critical down payment but we know the overall cost of recovery will be much greater. I have introduced a bill seeking $174 billion in disaster funds and urge my Republican colleagues to join with Democrats in supporting it.

“In the aftermath of Harvey’s destruction, some poor people have faced eviction while the displaced elderly have wondered when and how they will ever return home. Because of the Senate’s action, those most vulnerable in the aftermath of the storm enjoy a renewed sense of security.

“We do not yet know the full cost in human lives exacted by Hurricane Harvey. But what we do know is that if recovery is ever to take place, we must continue to place partisan issues aside and work together. The victims of Hurricane Harvey are counting on us and we must not let them down.”