Speech #940054428

I am deeply concerned that Guam may find itself called upon to provide permanent residence to more individuals than we can reasonably handle. In fact Governor Bordallo was forced by circumstances to declare the island of Guam in a state of emergency. Almost across the board. leaders of major American communities are resisting any influx of refugees into their areas. While I appreciate the efforts of the U.S. officials in charge of the refugee task force. I am concerned about the impact of their decisions on an island 30 miles long and 8 miles wide. We on Guam are proud to do our share. But quite frankly. many members of the government of Guam. our legislature. private citizens. and myself are concerned that the State Department. lacking alternative destinations for the refugees may attempt to resettle disproportionately large numbers on Guam. There are undoubtedly some desirable refugees that can contribute to the wellbeing of the territory such as skilled and professional people as well as business entrepreneurs. Finally. it should be recognized that this is a Federal problem and its solution lies within the Federal Government. We cannot impose an undue burden on our State and territorial governmentsa responsibility they are not adequately prepared to assume. In recognition of the role which the Federal Government must play in this matter. I have earlier sponsored legislation with Representative ANDERSON of California and other Members of the House to amend the Migration and Refu.gee Assistance Act of 1962 to provide for assistance to the refugees from Southeast Asia. The House Judiciary Committee is presently considering a similar legislation and I look forward to early passage of such a measure by the House. I am also today introducing a House xesolution which addresses itself to the need to assure equitable placement of the Vietnamese refugees by providing language which states: The President should take any steps within his power to prevent the refugees from settling indisproportionate numbers in Guam or any other State or Territory of the United States. It is my belief that America can and will produce a solution to the refugee question which will be fair to all concerned. I trust that the legislation I introduced today will be a small start toward that end. After the years of American sacrifice on behalf of democracy and liberty in South Vietnam. the resettlements of those who were displaced by recent events will be a fitting and proud end to our involvement in that tragic war.