U.S. Representatives Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) and Pat Tiberi (R-OH), co-chairs of the Italian-American Congressional Delegation, offered condolences and solidarity with the Italian Government and the people of Italy in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake last month. Pascrell and Tiberi have authored a House resolution, introduced with 16 bipartisan cosponsors, expressing the support and condolences of the United States to our ally Italy in the wake of the devastating earthquake in the Lazio and Marche regions of the country.

"Our bipartisan resolution is an opportunity for the House to mourn those lost and recognize the suffering of those affected by this disaster. Relief efforts of the Italian government and humanitarian aid organizations deserve our support," the Congressmen stated. "The United States and Italy have deep ties and the House resolution shows the Italian people our nation's support in their time of need."

The 6.2- magnitude earthquake struck central Italy on August 24, 2016. The epicenter of the earthquake was the town of Norcia, located about 70 miles northeast of Rome, and massive destruction was reported in Amatrice, Arquata, Accumoli, Pescara del Tronto, and other surrounding villages. Over 250 people have been killed and over 1,000 people are now homeless.