Jenniffer González and José Serrano present the Commitment Law to extend 100% of FEMA coverage in categories A and B of Public Assistance

Washington, DC - As part of Puerto Rico's recovery efforts and the anniversary of Hurricane Maria, the resident commissioner co-sponsored the Commitment Act with Congressman Serrano. The bill would extend 100 percent of the cost-sharing exemptions for FEMA categories A and B in Puerto Rico to ensure that the federal government covers the costs of emergency assistance to the island as a result of Hurricane Maria.

In 2007, similar language was incorporated into Public Law 110-28 to expand local cost sharing exemptions for Gulf Coast states after Hurricanes Katrina, so it is understood that Congress should act in the same way before the result of this disaster on the Island.

On August 15, 2018, FEMA announced that it would not continue to cover the total cost of these expenses, which will now be an additional burden for the local government and hinder recovery efforts. For Category A, the decision was effective that same day; for category B, the decision entered into force on September 15, 2018. Although the Governor of Puerto Rico appealed the decision, it is not apparent that FEMA intends to reverse it.

The reports that have been received from FEMA indicate the level of disaster that Puerto Rico suffered after the hurricane has been much higher and recovery work continues for the Island. The incorporation of this language will help ensure that the federal government assumes total responsibility for the recovery of Puerto Rico as American citizens, and nothing less.

"A year later, we have the elements to rebuild Puerto Rico. We have the spirit to face adversity, we have the strength to make our way, but above all, we have the faith to undertake this task firmly. The signing of this project will help us to continue working for our Island to provide them with the necessary tools for the total reconstruction that Puerto Rico needs, "said the Resident Commissioner.

###