UnidosUS Urges Quick Passage of Disaster Relief Bill to Help Puerto Rico Overcome Humanitarian Crisis

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WASHINGTON, DC—Today, UnidosUS (formerly NCLR) urged quick passage in the Senate of H.R. 2266 (Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act), which would provide $36.5 billion for victims of the devastation left behind by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, as well as the wildfires in the western part of the nation. Puerto Rico continues to deal with an unprecedented humanitarian crisis—most towns still lack electricity and running water, and food supplies in more remote areas are dwindling. Too many hospitals are unable to effectively treat patients, and health experts fear that if these deteriorated conditions are allowed to continue the island could face a devastating health crisis.

“The disaster reserves are low and the humanitarian situation in Puerto Rico is dire. It is critical that Congress move swiftly to pass an aid package that can help all victims of these devastating natural disasters get their lives back,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO, UnidosUS.

“Allowing these conditions to persist weeks on end will make recovery efforts even more difficult and place additional lives in jeopardy. We urge Congress to pass this relief bill and to make a long-term commitment to helping Puerto Rico and the nearly 3.5 million Americans who live there,” concluded Murguía.