the result of damage sustained from Hurricane Maria has left the
residents of Puerto Rico without electricity and with extremely
limited cell phone service, emergency and medical services and
access to clean water and food supplies; and
WHEREAS, In some cases, the loss of communications has made
it virtually impossible for injured residents to call for or
receive lifesaving services; and
WHEREAS, Limited communications have also impacted much of
this Commonwealth's Puerto Rican population, who are unable to
reach family members located on the island; and
WHEREAS, Pennsylvania ranks fourth nationwide in the number
of Puerto Ricans living in the United States, with this
Commonwealth's Puerto Rican population totaling nearly 366,000;
and
WHEREAS, One-third of this Commonwealth's total Puerto Rican
population resides in Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, Sadly, residents of Puerto Rico face numerous
obstacles in their attempt to return to their normal, everyday
lives and have little hope of receiving emergency services in
the near future without the aid from the United States;
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
urge the President and the Congress of the United States to
swiftly make emergency financial resources available to assist
Puerto Rico and its residents in recovering from Hurricane
Maria; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to
the President of the United States, the presiding officers of
each house of Congress and to each member of Congress from
Pennsylvania.
20170SR0211PN1254 - 2 -
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