Schakowsky statement on providing aid to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands

Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip, released the following statement addressing the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This week, Congresswoman Schakowsky has advocated for increased and immediate support in letters to President Trump and Congressional leadership, as well as at a press conference earlier today.

“American citizens are suffering. More than a week after the islands were ravaged by Hurricanes Maria and Irma, the federal government’s response has been insufficient. Millions of our brothers and sisters need food, water, fuel, and medical services. Time is of the essence, and our response must be swift and overwhelming.

“We need Republican leadership to bring legislation to the floor to provide emergency funding for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands immediately. We need the President to extend the waiver of the Jones Act for far, far, longer than the ten days that were announced today. We need the Department of Defense to increase and expedite the deployment of assets to the islands. We cannot afford to wait. I will continue to do everything in my power to ensure that citizens in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are adequately taken care of by their government.”