White House Recalls Promised Funds for Katrina Relief
Top Homeland Security Democrat Thompson is Outraged by Bush Administration Deception of Hurricane Victims
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, March 06, 2006
Today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the investigatory arm of Congress, released the results of an investigation detailing the Bush Administration’s stalling of spending for Hurricane Katrina relief.
By withholding funds that he promised for Hurricane relief and rebuilding, President Bush interfered with Congress’ constitutional duty to oversee the government’s purse and ensure accountability to the American people. The GAO investigation found that the Bush Administration stalled $470 million intended for Katrina relief, causing Congress to intervene and rescind $135 million.
“Stalling funds destined for Katrina relief is just another example of this Administration’s inability to square with the American people,” said Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security.
“It was confirmed last week that the President mismanaged the preparation and response to Hurricane Katrina, which cost the lives of thousands of Americans. Now we learn that the President has been playing politics by withholding money he promised for relief.
“In doing so, the President is not just sidestepping the law, which requires reports to Congress for the impoundment of promised funds; he has also neglected his promise of precious resources in the wake of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation,” Rep. Thompson said.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact Dena Graziano at (202) 226-2616.
