VICTIMS OF CIVIL DISORDERS 777

Authority to provide incentives for low and middle-income
housing.

8. Members of the Governor's staff are presently exploring the
feasibility of creating a reconstruction development authority
empowered to deal promptly with all the problems of restoring
a riot-destroyed area.

9. The Governor has proposed that the Division of Consumer Pro-
tection make increased efforts to investigate complaints of ex-
cessive usury and credit practices, unfair charges for check cash-
ing services and disproportionately high prices for such grocery
items as bread, milk and eggs in the ghetto area.

10. The establishment by State Insurance Commissioner Newton
Steers of a Riot Recovery Program which includes:

1) Four duty stations which have been set up, staffed by in-
surance advisors.

2) Full priority being given to assist citizens in recovery claims.

3) Meetings which have been set with insurance companies to
expedite claims payments.

NEWS RELEASE ON EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
TO VICTIMS OF CIVIL DISORDERS

April 23, 1968

Governor Agnew announced today that he has directed Raleigh
Hobson, Director of the State Department of Public Welfare, to use
all possible resources to meet the needs of victims of the recent civil
disorders in Baltimore.

Federal support is available for emergency help through the Welfare
Department which includes:

1) Emergency financial aid, both grants and loans;

2) Medical care;

3) Social and legal services;

4) Home repairs for public assistance recipients.

In addition, emergency assistance to meet riot caused needs can be
provided to families with children who do not otherwise qualify for
Federal assistance, the Governor said.