Puerto Rico seeks $94B in U.S. aid amid storm damage

WASHINGTON — Puerto Rico’s governor on Monday asked the federal government for $94.4 billion as the island struggles to recover from the damage inflicted by Hurricane Maria, with much of the U.S. territory without power and thousands still homeless.

Ricardo Rossello also urged Congress to adopt a tax overhaul plan that addresses Puerto Rico’s specific needs to avoid an exodus of the companies that currently generate 42 percent of the island’s gross domestic product.

The governor said during a news conference that he will formally make his request to the White House and Congress, along with a report with a detailed assessment of damage.

So far, Congress has approved nearly $5 billion in aid for Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria on Sept. 20.