The American people hold Congress in low regard, and given the debate over extending the payroll tax cut it's not hard to see why. Congress again found itself in a deadlock as taxes were set to rise by over $1,000 next year for the average American who has a job, and unemployment benefits were set to run out for over 175,000 New Yorkers who are desperately trying to find a job. This was unacceptable, and the reason was pure politics.

As New York works to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, an unfortunate battle is brewing in Washington over how to provide the funding necessary to meet the federal government's disaster recovery obligations. As I return to Washington for votes next week, I am going to do everything I can to ensure that New Yorkers, and all Americans affected by this storm, have the resources they need to repair their homes and get their businesses and farms up and running. I'm also going to fight to ensure that municipalities, already suffering from budget shortfalls, have the resources they need to repair vital infrastructure so that people can return to their normal routines as soon as possible. It is important to realize, however, that this year alone at least 18 states have been directly affected by natural disasters, and now the President's Disaster Relief Fund is running dangerously low. In the past, when similar shortfalls have occurred, Congress hasn't l

Today, President Obama issued a Major Disaster Declaration for 19 counties in New York. This designation will enable individuals, families, businesses, farmers and municipalities in our district to use federal aid to repair and rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Irene. My offices across the district are able help you navigate the process of applying for federal aid. Read on to find out more about what assistance may be available to you. Please note that Delaware, Dutchess and Ulster are the only counties in our district currently eligible for assistance. I'm working to add additional counties to this list and it is likely more areas will be eligible for assistance in the coming days. Individual Assistance: The United States Government will provide federal aid and funding directly to affected individuals in Delaware, Dutchess and Ulster counties. The Federal Emergency

Our part of New York was hit hard by Hurricane Irene. Millions across the state lost power and many experienced serious flooding and damage to their homes.  If you need assistance with a federal government agency, please don't hesitate to contact my offices. Governor Cuomo has some great tips for staying safe after the storm - you can view them here. The Governor's office has also posted a list of Immediate Steps New Yorkers Should Take Regarding Hurricane Property Losses and Insurance Claims. If you are still experiencing a power outage, please contact your utility company: Broome/Sullivan/Tioga/Tompkins/Delaware:NYSEG: 1-800-572-1131 Ulster/