WASHINGTON – The tornado season is underway, as evidenced by record-breaking storms experienced in recent weeks. Congressman Spencer Bachus issued a reminder that there are funds available for storm protection.
“In 2003, I introduced and passed The Tornado Shelters Act, which allows local governments to use Community Development Block Grant funds to construct storm shelters in manufactured housing communities. With the devastation recently experienced by so many families all across America, it is my hope more communities will take advantage of this opportunity to help ensure their citizens’ safety.
“Today, the technology is there to give early and normally ample warning when a powerful tornado approaches. When a tornado strikes, all of us are at risk. Unless you have a basement or an interior safe room in your home, you need a storm shelter. This legislation allows cities and counties to provide such a safe haven for their citizens.
“Prior to this legislation, federal programs to help communities and individuals build storm shelters did not include manufactured housing communities. It is my hope this bill will help level the playing field; I urge local communities and residents to act on it.”
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