HARRISBURG - The Senate Appropriations Committee unanimously approved the flood relief package, consisting of Senate Bills 1264, 1266, 1267, 1268, 1269, 1271, 1297, and 1323, Senator David G. Argall (R-29) announced following the meeting.

Argall, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voiced his support and satisfaction with the committee's action on much-needed relief for constituents, especially those in western Schuylkill County."With all of the horrible damage brought on by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, these bipartisan bills are certainly a glimmer of hope for families and businesses devastated by flooding," said Argall, who co-sponsored the legislation. "The state made disaster relief and recovery a priority and I'm pleased to see these bills move forward to help local residents in their dire time of need."The eight bills aimed at flood relief will address the following areas: Infrastructure repair and maintenance, small business repair through low-interest loans, agriculture repair through low-interest loans, and home and individual relief not covered by federal or other state assistance programs.Most of the funding comes from within already appropriated funds designated in the 2011-2012 fiscal year state budget. Funding is also provided through long-term, low-interest bonds strictly designated for those impacted by the storms.