A Times Editorial

Obligated to aid New York

Soon after the World Trade Center towers were brought down by two hijacked airliners, President Bush promised $20-billion to help New York rebuild, and Congress quickly gave its approval. But when the president submitted his budget recently, he failed to allocate even a dollar for that purpose.

The oversight wasn't the only reason New Yorkers have grown nervous about the federal government's commitment to the recovery effort. White House budget director Mitchell E. Daniels Jr. suggested he would count $5-billion in federal aid to victims as part of the $20-billion. When New York officials objected to the reduction, Daniels responded: "It seems strange to me to treat this as a money-grubbing game."

In a congressional hearing the next day, Daniels apologized for his unfortunate remark and once again pledged administration support for the city's rebuilding effort. But he didn't clarify the key issues: Why wasn't the money put into the president's budget? When and how will the money be allocated?

Then the president visited New York and, once again, vowed to keep his promise. "When I say I'm going to do something, I'm going to do it," Bush announced. His words were reassuring, but only $11-billion in aid has been agreed to by the White House and Congress so far.

There should be no doubt about the nation's commitment to New York. In addition to the loss of life and property, the city suffered extensive damage to its infrastructure. Subway and railroad lines and stations were destroyed, roads and utilities were obliterated and structural damage was done to underground barriers that hold back sea water.

While some of the disagreements over victim compensation have been unseemly, the city of New York should not be seen as "money-grubbing" when it asks for the financial help that was promised. New York was not at fault for the great harm done to the city on Sept. 11, and its loss was felt by all Americans. The federal government has an obligation to aid the recovery.

President Bush should leave no doubt about his commitment. As soon as possible, he should identify a revenue source for the $20-billion and a timetable under which it will be disbursed. He should put his plan in writing so that the government does not forget to live up to its word.

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