WASHINGTON – In order to provide additional assistance to families and businesses struggling to rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) lead a bipartisan coalition including Reps. Joseph Crowley (D-NY), Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ), Michael Grimm (R-NY), John Larson (D-CT), Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ), Charles Rangel (D-NY), Tom Reed (R-NY) and Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY) in introducing legislation to provide tax relief to the victims of the devastating storm that caused widespread destruction throughout the Northeast. The Hurricane Sandy Tax Relief Act of 2013, modeled after a similar bill passed into law in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, is aimed at providing tax relief for victims of Hurricane Sandy in areas designated as Federal Disaster Areas by the President.

"While the Sandy aid we fought so hard for is finally getting to the communities that desperately need it, we know it's not going to be enough to help families and businesses fully recover," said Rep. Pascrell, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "This legislation will go a long way towards filling this gap by providing immediate tax relief to those impacted by Sandy's devastation. Similar tax relief has been passed following some of our country's worst natural disasters, and Sandy victims deserve nothing less than the same treatment. Despite stepping up to the plate when other regions of the country have been hit by natural disasters, the Northeast was left waiting more than three months for federal aid following Sandy. We simply can't allow this double standard to continue to hamper recovery efforts."

"Seven months after Hurricane Sandy, New Jersey residents and business are continuing the hard work of recovery," Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen said. "This legislation gives families the ability to help themselves by targeting tax relief where it's most needed."

"While the physical signs of Sandy's destruction are being repaired and communities are put back together, there remains a significant need to address the unseen negative impact on families and businesses. This bipartisan legislation will ensure equity of treatment to our constituents suffering from a major storm and a vital opportunity to finally put Sandy behind them," said Rep. Frank LoBiondo.

"We fought hard for aid following Hurricane Sandy so that victims would get the help needed to rebuild their communities," said Rep. Tom Reed, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "Today's bill is a way to follow through on our commitment to make sure that aid isn't delayed. As one of the costliest natural disasters in the history of our country, Hurricane Sandy left a path of destruction millions of Americans are still trying to recover from. With this bill, we can continue and enhance those rebuilding efforts."

"The reality is hundreds of thousands of families and businesses affected by Hurricane Sandy are exactly that – still affected. This legislation will help provide assistance and relief as the daunting challenge of rebuilding, restarting and re-establishing lives and livelihoods continues," said Rep. Joe Crowley, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "The fundamental goal of government is to protect and help our citizens in need. Just as Congress has done in the wake of other natural disasters, it is critical that we provide this much-needed tax relief as soon as possible."

"One of the greatest attributes of our nation is the resiliency of the people in devastated communities and the shared understanding that the whole country is there to lift them up in their time of need," said Rep. Charles B. Rangel, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "The damage and suffering caused by Hurricane Sandy is not merely felt by those affected in the East Coast, but by all of America. I'm proud to have worked on the Hurricane Sandy Tax Relief Act of 2013 with my Colleagues because it is an American solution to an American problem. This bipartisan bill is based on tax relief that has been provided in the aftermath all major disasters across the country. We cannot wait. It should be enacted as soon as possible."

"From hurricanes and tornadoes to wildfires and floods, Americans come together in the face of disaster," said Rep. Carolyn McCarthy. "We're asking our colleagues in Congress to help the millions of people affected by Sandy through this commonsense and fair tax relief, because it's the right thing to do and helping each other is who we are as Americans."

"The damage caused by Hurricane Sandy will leave a lasting impact on communities in Connecticut and across the East Coast," said Congressman Larson, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "Congress has an obligation to help these Americans, who have been forced to deal with the economic strain of a devastating natural disaster. I am proud of the bipartisan efforts of my colleagues who understand that providing relief is not about politics or ideology, rather it is our responsibility to respond to Americans in need. I urge Congress to take up this legislation and help our cities, towns and businesses recover."

"As federal aid begins to flow into the hands of those struggling to recover from Sandy, it will never fully cover the cost of the storm," said Rep. Grimm. "By pairing aid with tax relief, we can maximize assistance to our struggling families and businesses, and further ease the burden of recovery. Congress has a long history of providing tax relief in the aftermath of natural disasters, and the people of New York and New Jersey deserve the same opportunity."

The legislation will complement the federal government's relief and recovery efforts by providing additional tax relief to businesses, individuals and municipalities affected by Hurricane Sandy, including:

Individual Assistance:

• Waiver of Adjusted Gross Income limitation for theft/loss deduction, so individuals can deduct the cost of uninsured losses.

• Increased Charitable Contribution Limits: The legislation increases charitable deduction limits of taxpayers with respect to cash contributions to certain tax exempt organizations made for the purpose of relief efforts related to Hurricane Sandy.

• Look-back Provision for Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit, to allow a family in the affected region to opt to use their previous year's earnings to calculate their Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit.

• Allow taxpayers whose principal place of residence is in the Hurricane Sandy Disaster Area and who suffered a loss from Hurricane Sandy, to take distributions from retirement savings accounts with no tax penalty, provided such amount is repaid within three years.

Business Assistance:

• Allowing businesses to expense the cost of disaster recovery.

• Allowing businesses to use Net Operating Loss to recover past tax payments or reduce future tax payments, if they are operating with no tax liability during the prescribed period.

• Increase in new markets tax credit for investments in community development entities serving Hurricane Sandy disaster areas.

• Allowing public utilities to reduce their tax liability when rebuilding or replacing assets damaged in the storm.

• Work Opportunity Tax Credits for displaced workers.

Public and Municipal Assistance:

• A new state-by-state private activity bond allocation for Sandy-affected areas to rebuild docks and wharfs, commuting facilities, certain housing, water, sewage, and solid waste infrastructure, and facilities used to provide electric energy or gas.

Housing Assistance:

• Increased allocation of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit for declared disaster areas.

• Waiver of certain mortgage revenue bond requirements, easing access to capital.

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"As a member from Connecticut, a state that recently endured the destruction of a hurricane, the tragedy of the slaughter of innocents in Newtown and, most recently, a train wreck this past weekend, we know that tragedy and natural disaster can befall any part of the country at any time.

"Our hearts go out to Oklahoma and to Representative Tom Cole, whose district has been devastated by this latest catastrophe. I recall how Tom Cole stood tall and voted for providing direct relief for Hurricane Sandy when it was not popular within his own Conference. He did what Americans do – rise to the aid of their fellow citizens.

"As the search and rescue efforts valiantly continue, let us not just offer our prayers, as needed and as welcome as they are; let us act as united citizens and send with all due speed the relief that the people of Oklahoma so desperately need.

"Disasters and tragedy should never be about ideology, politics or geographic locale; when Americans are in need of help, the Congress needs to respond. That is who we are as a people; that's what makes us a more perfect union. Any American befallen by tragedy or natural disaster needs the assistance of its nation and fellow Americans.

"Let us act now before we leave this week on a long recess. Oklahoma citizens struck by this disaster do not have the luxury to wait. Let us put politics and ideology aside and act on behalf of the American people."

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"Far too many voters dealt with inexcusable issues and delays when trying to cast a ballot in our most recent elections," said Congressman Larson. "This act empowers all Americans to exercise their right to vote, reduces costs and increases transparency in our electoral system. I applaud Ranking Member Brady and other Democratic members of the Committee on House Administration for introducing this legislation and look forward to continuing my work to improve our electoral process."

The Election Assistance Commission Improvements Act of 2013 allows the EAC to continue their work protecting every American's right to vote and improves the ability of commissioners to track electoral issues. In addition, the act also aims to improve access to polling places for disabled voters and increases transparency by preventing manufacturers from paying for the audits of their own machines.

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Flooding from the Pequabuck River during Hurricane Irene severely damaged homes and businesses in Bristol, Plainville and Plymouth. Many businesses located along the river were forced to close, including some that were unable to reopen and were forced to lay off employees. With the constant threat of recurring flooding, businesses have been fearful about rebuilding along the river.

The Bristol-Plainville-Plymouth Pequabuck River Flooding Study will provide a road map for reducing damage to homes and businesses from river flooding while saving future federal disaster relief dollars.

"With the constant threat of flooding from the Pequabuck River, Bristol, Plainville and Plymouth businesses have been rightfully fearful about rebuilding and investing along the water. This study is an important first step toward identifying necessary flood mitigation measures to ensure this beautiful river can once again serve as a job creation and economic development driver for the area. As severe weather events such as Irene become more and more common, I will continue to advocate for additional funding for flood mitigation measures throughout the state to ensure Connecticut business and communities are prepared for this new normal," Blumenthal said.

"Families and businesses in Plainville, Bristol, and Plymouth have seen more than their share of natural disasters in recent years," said Murphy. "This funding will help those communities develop flood mitigation programs to help prevent future disruptions of people's daily lives and business, and ensure more economic stability in the area. I'm proud to support it."

"The studies made possible by this grant will help Bristol and surrounding towns develop effective flood mitigation projects within the flood plain," said Larson. "Following Hurricane Irene I joined Mayor Ward to witness first-hand the devastation caused by flooding to sites surrounding the Pequabuck River. In the wake of unprecedented severe weather in New England, it is crucial that we continue to work towards reducing the damaging effects of future natural disasters that hurt our local and state economies."

"This is an important investment for long-term economic development in Plainville, Plymouth, and Bristol. For residents who have been rightfully fearful about rebuilding along the river and small business owners who are struggling to create jobs in the face of repeated disaster, we must take this critical first step and identify the best measures to alleviate the risks of flooding. I will continue to work with my colleagues in our delegation and local officials to ensure our communities receive the support they need to move forward and to minimize the costs of future disasters," said Esty.

"This regional effort is the first step in addressing the issue of flooding on the Pequabuck River. The study will identify the potential solution to the increase flooding events that are impacting our businesses and residents as well. We thank the delegation for working with Plainville, Plymouth and Bristol and securing the funds for the study," said Plainville Town Manager Robert Lee.

"This award is monumental in addressing the regional flooding problems of Bristol, Plymouth and Plainville as a result of the devastating issues associated with the Pequabuck River. This first step in recognizing the disastrous economic impact upon our communities will provide for an invaluable means of correcting and preventing future flooding disasters," said Bristol Mayor Art Ward.

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(Washington) – Today, in honor of National Peace Officers Memorial Day Congressman John B. Larson announced he will reintroduce legislation in the 113th Congress to allow the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff following the death of a first responder in the line of duty. Current law allows for the flag to be flown at half-staff for any member of the Armed Forces and present or former government officials.

"In the last six months alone our first responders have shown unparalleled bravery and heroism protecting our communities," said Congressman Larson. "Far too often these men and women make the ultimate sacrifice to keep each of us safe. As a nation we owe it to these heroes and their families to honor that sacrifice. That's why I will reintroduce the Honoring Hometown Heroes Act this Congress so that Connecticut and every state has the ability to fly the flag at half-staff for those first responders we have lost."

The Honoring Hometown Heroes Act was originally inspired by Jim McLoughlin of Windsor, a Hartford firefighter and Founder of the National Honor Guard Commanders Association. Mr. McLoughlin previously petitioned Congressman Larson to seek a change to the U.S. Code, Title 4, regulating the use of the American flag. The Act, originally introduced by Larson in the 112th Congress, would amend the Flag Code to permit the Governor of a state or territory to order the American flag to be lowered to half-staff in the event that a first responder from that state dies while in the line of duty.

Each year May 15th marks National Peace Officers Memorial Day during the annual National Police Week. Congress established National Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1962 to honor federal, state, and municipal officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.

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"Julia Tashjian was a beloved colleague and a remarkable woman with an incredible sense of humor and great political savvy. I am both shocked and saddened and will miss her dearly. An innovator as Secretary of State, Julia truly understood the value of community engagement. Her passion and commitment to public service was an inspiration to many, and today I offer my thoughts and prayers to her family and friends during this time."

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"The economic and environmental benefits of revitalizing former industrial areas, gas stations and other brownfields sites to our municipalities can often go unrealized due to the high costs of cleanup," said Congressman Larson. "With this funding, Goodwin College and the City of Hartford can further their efforts to develop these sites while helping to eliminate hazardous substances from our environment."

Goodwin College, Inc. is receiving $60,000 for hazardous substance cleanup at their 361-363 Main Street property in East Hartford, the home of a restaurant from 1936 to 1989 and a gas station from 1949 to 1968. Goodwin will also receive $340,000 for petroleum cleanup at both the 361-363 Main Street property and their 365-367 Main Street property in East Hartford, a car repair facility and gas station from 1950 to 1998 and auto repair facility until 2012.

The City of Hartford will receive $400,000 for hazardous substance cleanup at two brownfields sites, including the former home of the Philbrick, Booth, Spencer factory and foundry at 393 Homestead Avenue and a former paint and oil store at 70 Edwards Avenue. Hartford will also receive $200,000 for petroleum cleanup at the Downtown North Project Area at 40 Chapel Street.

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"We applaud news from the Department of Health and Human Services today that thirteen centers across Connecticut serving more than 300,000 individuals will be eligible for over $1.5 million in federal funds to hire new staff, train existing staff, conduct community outreach, and to help residents understand and enroll in affordable health insurance programs. This is yet another example of the Affordable Care Act providing critical services to those in need.

"Many of the community health centers' patients are the working poor who do not qualify for Medicaid and cannot afford health insurance – people who would greatly benefit from the new affordable health insurance program. We will continue to support their efforts and ensure that all families -- regardless of income -- have timely access to high quality, affordable care. That includes supporting community outreach and one-on-one counseling to help connect uninsured individuals to affordable health insurance programs."

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The $18,000 grant will allow the Bristol Fire Department to identify vulnerable local populations and structures, enabling the City to target training and planning to critical areas.

"This grant will help provide life-saving information to the Bristol Fire Department, enabling first responders to receive focused training to better assist the City's most vulnerable populations and areas. Seconds can make all the difference when responding to an emergency, and advance training and planning are vital. Connecticut firefighters deserve the best preparation, equipment and training available, and I am pleased that local departments across the state like Bristol have received the federal dollars to do so," Blumenthal said.

"Our firefighters and first responders put their lives on the line to protect our communities, and few things are more important than helping them do their jobs safely," said Murphy. "This grant will help fund the Bristol Fire Department's work to identify where the risks are and what we can do to prevent future fire related tragedies. My thanks goes to FEMA and the U.S. Fire Administration for recognizing this need and continuing to fight for these heroes as they fight for us."

"In Bristol and across Connecticut our first responders sacrifice their safety to shield our neighborhoods from fire related hazards," said Larson. "This grant will help better determine risk throughout the City of Bristol, improving their ability to effectively train our firefighters. I'm pleased to see this funding go to Bristol and know it will be used to help our brave men and woman in uniform prepare for the dangers they face protecting our communities."

"The City of Bristol is fortunate to be awarded these financial resources from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. We are assured that this grant will be used to provide the most pertinent and accurate data to our department. It will add to our record of safety and fire prevention in the City of Bristol," said Bristol Mayor Art Ward.

"The risk assessment will establish years of valuable firefighter training opportunities, equipment purchases and fire department public educational campaigns to address emergency risks," said Bristol Fire Chief Jon Pose.

This is the 17th federal firefighting grant awarded in Connecticut in Fiscal Year 2013. Middletown received $1.14 million to hire eight additional firefighters and Waterbury received $2.9 million to hire new fire recruits through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) and Assistance to Firefighters grant programs administered by FEMA. East Woodstock, Killingly, Plainfield, Willington, Seymour, Middletown, East Hartford, Shelton, Norwalk, Torrington, Southington and Waterbury also received grants to support operations and safety measures.

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(Washington) – Today Congressman John B. Larson spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to oppose the Pay China First Act:

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

"I rise today to oppose the Pay China First Act, and I do this with a heavy heart because I know of a number of talented individuals that we have on this committee and the process that we've been through in working together.

"It astounds me that somehow the ideological tail of the tea party wags the whole Republican effort in this area, and that the ideological reach of the tea party overrides the certainty that we should be bringing to the American people.

"Instead we're playing hostage politics again; holding up the American people, creating the uncertainty we don't need in this kind of climate instead of demonstrating that we can sit down and work together.

"I get the politics, I understand how you have to accede to a group that continues to take us to the precipice and then pull back. The American people are through with it. Let's sit down, deal with this and then move on. Create the certainty that will create the jobs.

"Let's not find ourselves in a situation that becomes almost an oxymoron, where we're paying China first at the expense of Americans when there is no good reason why we should be dealing with this issue other than the hostage politics it creates in dealing with an ideological minority driving the other side."

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