State Officials Applaud Legislation That Will Supply Flood Recovery Money

After the spending bill was blocked, West Virginia officials are applauding the passage of legislation that includes flood recovery money.

The House voted Wednesday night to send President Obama a bill to avert a government shutdown and put $500 million toward West Virginia and Louisiana flood relief. The Senate voted earlier Wednesday.

Senators stalled the bill Tuesday after many Democrats opposed the lack of money for Flint, Michigan’s lead-contaminated water. A dozen conservative Republicans also opposed the bill.

Sens. Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito commended Wednesday’s turnaround.

Democratic Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, who requested $310 million more in federal flood cash, said additional money will help make communities stronger than ever. It’s unclear what the bill awards West Virginia.

The June floods killed 23 people and ravaged West Virginia communities.