WASHINGTON — The White House is expected to ask Congress for about $50 billion in Hurricane Sandy disaster aid, falling far short of the more than $80 billion requested by New York and New Jersey.
Although the White House is still crunching numbers, the request will likely range between $45 billion and $55 billion — prompting outcries from the two states’ congressional delegations.
New York’s federal lawmakers vowed yesterday to battle for the extra funding, which would cover housing and business damage along with future storm protection.
“I think that’s inadequate; it will not cover the costs to rebuild New York, and we will fight for more funds if that is the number,” Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) said.
Gov. Cuomo called the $42 billion requested for New York a necessity.
“I know that’s a lot of money. I understand the fiscal situation, but that is the need and we’re looking to meet that need,” Cuomo said.
“You’d have to know what is in the $50 billion. Is that the end of it? Is that the first step? . . . It’s going to be a long slog.”
The massive request couldn’t come at a worse time, as Congress and President Obama are battling to avoid $600 billion in tax hikes and spending cuts that kick in Jan. 1.
The president should adjust the disaster-aid numbers up after having seeing the damage firsthand, said Rep. Michael Grimm (R-SI), whose district was ravaged by the storm.
“While we are all working to strike a balance as we approach the fiscal cliff, the issue is the furthest thing from the minds of my constituents in Staten Island who are struggling to pick up the pieces of their lives as they rebuild or start over,” Grimm said.
The delegation will push for more money upfront, said Rep. Timothy Bishop (D-LI), whose district was also pounded by the storm.
“If it is 50, I will consider that to be light, and I will join my colleagues, I’m sure, in pushing for a better number,” Bishop said.