Statement by Puerto Rico Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón

April 1, 2019- Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR) released the following statement ahead of Senate consideration of a disaster relief package that includes $600 million for Puerto Rico's Nutritional Assistance Program (NAP), which she helped secure.

"I want to reiterate my appreciation to Senators David Perdue, Marco Rubio, Rick Scott, Richard Shelby, Lindsey Graham, Tim Scott, Dan Sullivan, Johnny Isakson and Doug Jones for their unwavering commitment on behalf of the American in Puerto Rico that still struggle after the effects of hurricanes.

As my record demonstrates, I continue to fight to defend every dime that Congress has appropriated to Puerto Rico and I continue to push to guarantee that the people I am proud to represent have the resources they need. Congress has appropriated a historic amount for recovery efforts for Puerto Rico, and I am working diligently to pressure federal agencies to disburse the money that has been provided in a faster and more efficient way.

Unfortunately, the current political debate surrounding the disaster relief package and further assistance to Puerto Rico has proved that our government is divided. One has to be cognizant about these political realities and learn to compromise when needed.

While Democrats are opposed to the proposed Senate bill and its funding, my constituents are already seeing their benefits diminished by these practices of obstruction. Once the Senate measure is approved, I'm confident Republicans and Democrats can agree on a conference committee. Obstructing the bill's approval by waiting for a perfect measure that satisfies all parties now means more days and months of reduced nutrition assistance to vulnerable families on the Island.

Puerto Rico elected me as their Resident Commissioner because I am willing to reach across the aisle and work with the entire spectrum of a political party to bring back tangible benefits for the Island. That is why I have worked with Democrats and Republicans alike, in the House, Senate and the White House, to secure the $600 million for NAP in both bills. That is why I also continue to use every platform, including meetings with the White House, as well as every legislative vehicle to promote equality for Puerto Ricans and advance the causes that will lift our Island from the unfair treatment it receives.

My constituents cannot wait any longer. Puerto Rico still has a long recovery process ahead, it is necessary that we work together to ensure that the path is successful. The disaster bill in the Senate constitutes a compromise in this direction, and I will continue to support it. "