WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 -- Rep. Chris Collins, R-N.Y. (27th CD), issued the following statement:

"Today, the House of Representatives took action on the first of two aid packages to help people devastated by Superstorm Sandy in October. I am pleased that one of my first acts as a member of Congress was to co-sponsor and vote in favor of this bill, which will provide nearly $10 billion to FEMA so it can cover flood insurance claims. It is important that Congress come together to do its part and provide the necessary aid to help the millions of people impacted by this natural disaster. Too many families have had their entire lives turned upside down. It is only right that the federal government help those impacted on the East Coast recover and begin to rebuild not only their homes, but their lives."

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