White House to request USD29 billion for hurricane relief
Wednesday, 04/10/2017 17:32 (GMT+7)
The White House on October 3rd said that the US. Congress is preparing a USD29 billion aid package for hurricane relief.
Hurricane Irma hits Florida, the US on September 12th (Photo: AFP/VNA)
The disaster aid package combines USD16 billion to reinforce the government-backed flood insurance program with nearly USD13 billion in new relief for hurricane victims.
The request is expected to come on October 4th.
Congress last month approved a USD15.3 billion aid package that nearly doubled President Donald Trump's request. Senate Republicans added USD7.4 billion in community development block grant rebuilding funds to President Trump's request for immediate clean-up, repair, and housing costs.
Hurricane Maria caused massive destruction on Puerto Rico on September 20th, killing at least 16 people on the island and severely damaged its electricity and communications systems. Millions of people there are without power, water or food.
The hurricane also killed at least 49 people across the Caribbean. It is considered the strongest storm to hit the US territory in nearly 90 years./.
Compiled by BTA
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