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State Representative Tina Liebling
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-0573
For more information contact: Charlene Briner 651-296-5809
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SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA FLOOD RELIEF PACKAGE PASSES STATE LEGISLATURE
ST. PAUL, MN – Calling it a "good start" toward southeastern Minnesota's recovery after devastating flooding more that three weeks ago, Assistant Majority Leader Tina Liebling is pleased that a $150 million emergency aid package passed the House this evening on a vote of 130 – 0.
"Without quick action, some communities in our region may not survive," said Liebling. "I am pleased that the governor finally responded to the need by calling the legislature into special session so we could give these communities help and hope. And I am grateful to legislators from all over the state for recognizing the need and supporting the bill."
The funding package uses a mix of cash, bonding and trunk highway funds to provide assistance to flood victims and local governments with everything from debris removal and emergency vehicle replacement, to repair of roads, bridges and other public infrastructure. There are also provisions for drought affected counties, and fire relief recovery aid for Cook and Grand Marais Counties which suffered extensive damage from wildfires earlier this year.
"This really is an historic emergency relief package in terms of the individual aid it makes available," said Liebling. "Today's action by the state will help families all over our region begin to rebuild their lives."
The Governor is expected to sign the bill into law Wednesday. State agencies will then begin the process of distributing the funds to local governments and individuals over the course of the coming days and weeks.
"We've learned from past disasters that recovery is a long-term effort with considerable long-lasting economic impact," said Liebling. "The recovery process depends on a coordinated response from federal, state and local governments. Our actions today are an example of the way government should work to lend a hand to people in times of need."
Liebling did express disappointment that transportation was not addressed in the special session. In February 2008, the legislature will convene to consider a state building capital projects bonding bill. Liebling predicts transportation will likely be at the top of the agenda as well.
"We need a visionary, long-range, comprehensive transportation plan to keep our state moving for the next 30 years and beyond," said Liebling. "Now, after the floods that have made Southeast Minnesota's infrastructure even more dangerous, the need is even more compelling."
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News Items
- Rep. Tina Liebling Named Chair of House Health and Human Services Policy Committee - (Posted: 2012-11-16 00:00:00)
- Statement on DEED Bonding Project Announcement - (Posted: 2012-09-13 00:00:00)
- Local Legislators to Hold Town Hall Meeting - (Posted: 2012-07-19 00:00:00)
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