Flooding Update

U.S. Rep. John Culberson Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON D.C. Last week two key provisions to help those impacted by the devastating Memorial Day and Tax Day floods passed the House and the Senate. Congress passed the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WINN) Act. I included language in this legislation to direct the Army Corps of Engineers to expedite completion of Project Brays Bayou which will remove 29000 homes from the 100-year floodplain. Many of the families and business owners along Brays Bayou have experienced the devastation of watching their homes and businesses flood not once but twice in the last two years. It is vital that this project be completed as quickly as possible to limit any future damage during severe weather events. Congress also passed a continuing resolution to fund the government through April 28 2017. This legislation included $4.1 billion in disaster relief funding. This funding will be used to support recovery and rebuilding efforts after recent severe weather events. Harris County will be eligible to receive a portion of this funding and I will continue to advocate that part of this money be used to rebuild after the Tax Day floods.  We will learn how this funding will be allocated in early 2017 and I will continue to keep you updated on its progress. Flood control is an essential part of protecting our quality of life in Houston and I will continue to work with the Army Corps of Engineers State and local officials and my colleagues in Congress to develop strategic long-term solutions to prevent future flood damage.