The Norman Transcript

Opinion

January 4, 2013

Sandy aid forthcoming

NORMAN — We empathize with New York and New England residents with their anger over the lack of long-term federal aid for victims of Superstorm Sandy. Oklahomans have been left out of federal aid in the past.

Oklahomans have had tornadoes, ice storms, fires and blizzards that have caused widespread damage. Federal aid often is elusive.

The new Congress is expected to take up an immediate flood insurance aid package, followed by a second more long-term recovery fund. That could total as much as $60 billion.

Members of Congress from New York and New Jersey are comparing the storm to Hurricane Katrina in its damage. We’re not sure that’s a fair comparison, but it makes for a good sound bite.

Americans turn to the federal government and its vast resources for help when disasters strike. It’s part of what makes the country strong, and we encourage Congress to act swiftly to make communities whole again.

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