(Warwick, R.I.)–Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) today voted to approve H.R. 4939, a $92 billion emergency spending bill designed to offer additional support to the military and hurricane relief efforts.

The additional funding includes $72 billion for costs relating to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and foreign assistance programs, $19.1 billion for the continued recovery from Hurricane Katrina and other 2005 storms, and $750 million shifted from FY 2007 to FY 2006 for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This funding is designated as emergency spending and will not count against the spending limits in the FY 2006 budget resolution.

"I am proud to support this supplemental funding to provide our men and women in uniform with the equipment that they need to continue their efforts in Iraq, Afghanistan and throughout the world," said Langevin. "As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have fought for enhanced force protection equipment for our troops, much of which is included in this bill."

H.R. 4939 includes $410 million for new up-armored Humvees and $2 billion to develop and procure jammers for the improvised explosive devices (IEDs) used by Iraqi insurgents against U.S. troops.

"I am also pleased that this legislation provides more than $19 billion in much-needed assistance to the victims of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma," said Langevin. "Months after those storms battered our Gulf Coast, many are still displaced, and basic services are not available. Given the federal government's insufficient efforts in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, it is our responsibility to provide the affected residents and businesses with the resources and assistance they need to rebuild."

Also included in this emergency amendment is assistance to the victims of genocidal violence in Darfur and funding to train and equip the African Union peacekeeping troops charged with protecting people. To date, at least a hundred thousand people have been killed, with millions more displaced.

"It is impossible to view the images from Sudan without being outraged at the cruelty and injustice of the situation," said Langevin. "Our nation must do more to prevent further violence."

Finally, this legislation blocks Dubai Ports World from assuming control over six U.S. ports as part of their acquisition of P&O Steam Navigation Company.

"As a member of the Homeland Security Committee, I strongly opposed the sale because of the lack of a comprehensive investigation into the national security implications," continued Langevin. "We need to ensure that foreign investment decisions are based on real national security considerations and not just financial gain. I have been working to enhance port security in our nation, and the Dubai ports deal reminds us that until appropriate measures are taken, our ports will continue to be vulnerable."

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