Bush Declares Emergency in DC for Inauguration
Declaration makes more money available for inauguration
Wednesday, Jan 14, 2009 | Updated 12:12 AM EST
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Washington - A sign outside the U.S. Capitol at dawn notes that the area is closed for construction of the 2009 presidential inauguration site.
WASHINGTON -- President George W. Bush on Tuesday declared an emergency in the District of Columbia that will let the nation's capital tap deeper into federal coffers for Barack Obama's inauguration.
An emergency exists, Bush said, and he ordered federal aid to supplement the $15 million in federal funds already appropriated for the event.
D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty requested the emergency declaration on Jan. 7 because he decided that the crowds expected for the nation's 56th presidential inauguration would exceed the city's ability to protect the public, White House spokesman Scott Stanzel said.
If the extra money is needed, it will come from the Federal Emergency and Management Agency budget, Stanzel said.
In a statement, the White House said the assistance is available to the District for emergency measures to protect public health and safety.
Fenty and others have said millions could descend on Washington for the inauguration.
More Inauguration Links for Locals:
Copyright Associated Press
Posted Tuesday, Jul 14, 2009 - 3:52 AM EST
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