Washington – President Barack Obama’s proposal for $60.4 billion in aid for states hit by Superstorm Sandy adds a huge new item to an end-of-year congressional agenda already packed with controversy.
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Lawmakers from New York, New Jersey and other states had requested significantly more money, but generally praised the request Friday. They’re urging Congress to adopt it without delay.
That’s no easy task. Washington is laser-focused on the so-called fiscal cliff looming at the end of the year. And tea party House Republicans may demand budget cuts elsewhere to offset costs.
That means the measure could be delayed in whole or in part until next year.
The request blends aid for homeowners, businesses and local governments affected by Sandy, which left millions without power and is blamed for at least 125 deaths.