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Velázquez on Release of HUD Puerto Rico Funds

January 15, 2020

Velázquez on Release of HUD Puerto Rico Funds

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding news reports that the Trump Administration would lift a hold on long delayed disaster relief funds for Puerto Rico from the Department of Housing and Urban Development:

"While it is a welcome development that the Administration has released its hold on these funds, this step is inexcusably overdue. Congress approved this disaster relief almost two years ago and these ongoing delays speak to the Administration's disdain for the people of Puerto Rico.

"Going forward, I will be focused on seeing that FEMA and other federal agencies respond effectively and compassionately to the recent earthquakes. The White House can start by issuing a ‘major disaster' declaration as the Governor of Puerto Rico has requested. We cannot afford for the Trump Administration to repeat the mistakes of Maria, which cost thousands of our fellow citizens their lives. Our government must do better."