US government should help pay Louisiana cops, firefighters: governor

0 Comments | AFP, October, 2005

NEW ORLEANS (AFP) — Louisiana's governor called on the US government to help pay local cops and other "critical public safety" workers dealing with widespread hurricane-wrought ruin.

Governor Kathleen Blanco publicly urged US President George Bush and congressional leaders to modify federal rules to allow federal aid cash to be spent on more than overtime for state employees.

"I am asking Congress to make that change within a week," Blanco said in a statement. "The funds are already available. Quick action is critical."

Blanco, a Democrat, met with local officials from throughout storm-savaged portions of Louisiana, and some flanked her as she held a press conference asking federal officials to allow aid money to be used for local government payrolls....