President George W. Bush has asked Congress for $7.1 billion in new emergency aid for Florida and other states hard hit by Hurricanes Ivan and Jeanne. The disaster relief money comes in addition to the $5.1 billion already sought by Bush to help Florida recover from Hurricanes Charley and Frances, bring the total to more than $12.2 billion so far. On Tuesday, the White House said the $7.1 billion package would also fund recovery efforts in eight other southern and Appalachian states damaged by high winds or severe flooding. The request includes $4.5 billion to help cover uninsured damage to property and public infrastructure. Another $400 million will provide financial assistance to farmers with crop losses. In addition, Bush included $50 million in international disaster and famine assistance for Grenada, Jamaica, Haiti, and other nations affected by recent hurricanes.
