A resolution observing the 20th anniversary of the date on which Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast and recognizing the progress of efforts to rebuild the affected Gulf Coast region.
This is a Senate resolution (S. Res. 344) recognizing the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation of the Gulf Coast and acknowledging the progress made in rebuilding the affected region. It expresses support for Katrina victims, commends those who assisted in the recovery, recognizes the contributions of Gulf Coast communities across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, and reaffirms the Senate’s commitment to continue rebuilding, renewing, and restoring the Gulf Coast. The resolution is descriptive and commemorative rather than a bill that creates new laws or authorizes funding. The text also highlights the scale of Katrina’s impact—loss of life, widespread displacement, economic damage, destroyed homes and infrastructure, and the large-scale rescue and relief responses by federal, state, local authorities and humanitarian organizations. It notes notable progress, such as population recovery in parts of Mississippi and a rebound in tourism to New Orleans, while acknowledging that challenges remain and more work is needed to complete the recovery.
Key Points
- 1Purpose and scope: A non-binding Senate resolution observing the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina (Aug. 29, 2005) and reaffirming commitment to rebuilding the Gulf Coast; it expresses support for victims, commends recovery efforts, and recognizes Gulf Coast communities’ contributions.
- 2Acknowledged impacts: Katrina caused widespread fatalities, enormous economic damage, mass evacuations and displacements, destruction of homes and businesses, and significant infrastructure loss (including bridges and power outages). It also involved extensive rescue and relief efforts by the Coast Guard, the U.S. Armed Forces, and numerous humanitarian organizations.
- 3Progress and milestones: The resolution cites measurable progress such as population growth in the Gulfport-Biloxi-Pascagoula area and increased tourism to New Orleans, illustrating ongoing rebuilding and revival in the region.
- 4Nature of the instrument: It is a Senate resolution introduced by a group of Senators and agreed to by the Senate; it is a formal statement of sentiment and support, not a new law or funding authorization.
- 5Ongoing work and commitment: While significant progress has been made, the resolution acknowledges remaining challenges and reiterates the Senate’s commitment to continue rebuilding, renewing, and restoring the Gulf Coast region.