On September 29, 2017, Congressional Republicans pressed the Trump administration to act quickly on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Puerto Rico.
Representatives Charlie Dent (R-PA), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA) and Daniel Webster (R-FL) wrote a letter to the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Elaine C. Duke.
“As Members of Congress that represent districts with high numbers of Puerto Ricans, Hurricane Maria has personally impacted so many of our constituents” the letter stated. “It is our responsibility to ensure federal resources are being used efficiently and effectively to support Americans impacted by disaster. Today, we are asking you to make one regulatory change that could help save lives”, the letter added.
The representatives requested a federal cost sharing extension. “[W]e urge you to seriously consider extending federal cost sharing from six months to one full year”, the letter added. As well as an expeditious brief reports to Congress. “[W]e request that Congress be regularly briefed on the response to this disaster as soon as practicable.”
The three members represent districts with a strong Puerto Rican population. Rep. Charlie Dent represents 70,175 Puerto Ricans, which are 58% of the Hispanic population in the district. For Rep. Lloyd Smucker’s district, he serves 72,488 Puerto Ricans, which are 53% of the Hispanic population. Finally, Rep. Daniel Webster represents 34,145 Puerto Ricans, which are 46% of the Hispanic population.
A copy of the letter can be viewed by clicking here.
