House Passes Disaster Bill

June 6, 2019

On Monday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 354-58 to pass the $19.1 billion disaster package. The bill provides funding to support the victims affected by the Midwest floods, California wildfires, and Hurricanes Florence and Michael. In addition, the bill contains $900 million for Puerto Rico’s recovery. Monday’s vote follows weeks of debate and delays against the additional support for Puerto Rico and the lack of funding for the U.S.-Mexico border wall.

Last month, the Senate voted 85-8 to advance the bill. Immediately following the Senate passage, the House attempted to pass the bill by unanimous consent. However, on three separate occasions, a House Republican blocked the approval, demanding a formal roll-call vote. The bill will now be sent to the President’s desk for signature. President Trump said he supports the measure, even though it does not contain money for the border wall.