The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation to grant those devastated by Hurricane Sandy $9.7 billion in relief. The Senate is already expected to pass the measure today as well.
Congressman John Boehner (R-Ohio), who was recently re-elected to his post as Speaker of the House, cancelled a vote on the relief package earlier this week on Tuesday. He later agreed to hold a vote on Friday after a firestorm of controversy erupted criticizing his decision.
Shortly after learning of the House Speaker”™s agenda, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie reportedly said the decision was “like it was a cruel knife in the back.” Gov. Andrew Cuomo also responded by saying Sandy victims have suffered long enough.
The $9.7 billion is intended to replenish the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA officials have said that flood insurance funds for homeowners will likely be used up by next week.
Another vote is set for Jan. 15 on the remaining $50.3 billion requested for areas impacted by Sandy.
