WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Kweisi Mfume, Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Andy Harris, M.D., Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey released the following statement on the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse tragedy:

“The sudden collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and the loss of six lives in Baltimore this week are human and economic tragedies that will reverberate throughout the Baltimore region, our state and the nation.

“This bridge has connected communities, been a major thoroughfare for commerce, and been an icon of our city for nearly 50 years.

“As a congressional delegation, we mourn those lost and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families. We also thank the countless first responders – local, state and federal – who took action to save lives and aid in the rescue and recovery efforts.

“We appreciate the President’s immediate deployment of the Army Corps in order to clear the channel and resume port operations, as well as his commitment to provide federal funds for this vital thoroughfare to the Baltimore region, and we thank the Army Corps for their critical help during this time. We also appreciate the Transportation Secretary’s equally steadfast support throughout – including arriving with his team on scene within hours. 

“We fully support the State of Maryland’s request for Emergency Relief funds and appreciate the fast approval of $60 million in Quick Release funds, and we are committed to providing every possible federal resource to aid in the rebuilding and recovery efforts for the families and the communities feeling the impact of the accident.

“While there is much the Administration can do within existing programs, we are at the ready to work together to provide funding through Congress when necessary. We will also work to hold any foreign companies and other third parties liable, if they were negligent. For this, we are grateful to all of our colleagues on both sides of the aisle who understand the importance of the Port of Baltimore to both our local and national economy and have expressed strong support for the rebuilding effort.”