Blog: Rick Scott says “Obama’s sequestration” to blame for expected Tropical Storm preparation delays
Jun 6, 2013
The following article was posted to the SaintPetersBlog on June 6, 2013:
Rick Scott blames ‘Obama’s sequestration’ on lack of preparation for Andrea
By Phil Ammann
Gov. Rick Scott blames the federal government for any lack of preparation in the Florida National Guard during Tropical Storm Andrea.
In a press conference Thursday morning, Scott faults “Obama’s sequestration” for a “20 percent pay cut for half” of Florida’s National Guard. He suggested attempts at austerity leave the state ill equipped to help residents fully during natural events like Andrea.
Scott was referring to sequester of budget cuts to a wide range of federal spending that began on March 1. The cuts were legislated by the Budget Control Act of 2011, initially set to begin on January 1 but postponed by two months by the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012.
Scott, a vocal critic of federal overspending, believes the automatic cuts, which has affected a large number of federal programs, results in more time to immobilize the National Guard.
“It’s going to take longer and longer for (the National Guard) to get ready,” Scott says.
According to the NOAA National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Andrea will be affecting the state’s west coast through Thursday evening, bringing high gusts and heavy rains.
“Take this as a precursor (for residents) to be ready,” Scott adds. “Have three days’ worth of food and water.”
View the original article here: http://www.saintpetersblog.com/rick-scott-blames-obamas-sequestration-on-lack-of-preparation-for-andrea