FUNDING FOR NON-FEDERAL LEVEES OK'D BY HOUSE

WASHINGTON -- Minutes before the U.S. House of Representatives wrapped up its business for 1993 early Tuesday morning, legislation was passed authorizing up to $50 million in assistance for non-federal levees damaged during the flood of 1993.

The bipartisan effort was led by U.S. Reps. Bill Emerson, R-Cape Girardeau, and Pat Danner, D-Jackson County.

The bill, which now goes to the Senate, was introduced by Emerson and Danner after the Clinton administration announced last week it would spend only $18 million to rebuild levees that don't qualify for other aid from this summer's floods.

"They knew that amount was inadequate to meet the pressing needs," said Emerson. "This legislation simply helps fulfill what should be done to protect property and livelihoods."

Added Danner: "This measure is of vital importance to homeowners, farmers and business people. I am pleased with regard to the expeditious manner in which the bill was approved. This legislation will enable us to make substantial repairs."

An estimated 482 levees in the Midwest don't qualify for federal assistance. The bill gives levee districts until Sept. 30, 1994, to come up with public sponsorship by a state or local government to qualify for Corps of Engineers assistance. The local sponsor has to come up with one fourth of the repair costs.

"This proposal would apply only to those levees which already meet the Corps' strict criteria, but for one reason or another were not already listed in the federal program," explained Emerson.

"Furthermore, the bill requires that any future assistance would be contingent upon the non-federal levees continued participation in the program and meeting those federal requirements.

"Quite simply, we're meeting today's needs and hopefully averting tomorrow's flood control problems."

Emerson pointed out that congressmen from the Midwest have worked hard to get the increased funding.

Senate action on the measure will be taken up early next year.