WASHINGTON, DC (January 28, 2013) The Senate today voted to pass $50.5 billion in aid for Northeast states impacted by Hurricane Sandy. The passage of the bill comes on the heels of a call from national labor and environmental leaders recently urging not only for swift passage of this aid bill, but also to begin to look at what kinds of long term investments are necessary for rebuilding America’s infrastructure — including energy, water, communications, and transportation systems — to be prepared for climate change. BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster released the following statement:

“The Senate’s approval of this aid today is an important step back on the path to recovery for thousands of families and business owners across the Northeast who were impacted by one of the most destructive storms we’ve ever seen. Those affected by the storm have already waited for too long for this day.

“Hurricane Sandy was alarming for many reasons, but most of all for the vulnerability it exposed in our infrastructure systems that protect people and communities. Now that this aid has cleared Congress, it’s time to talk about what we can do to protect our families and communities from future disasters. We have the know-how and the workforce ready to rebuild our infrastructure to mitigate the worst impacts of extreme weather. Doing this will also create good jobs for the American people.

“America is ready to roll up our sleeves at get to work on this important task if Congress will show the leadership necessary to get the job done.”