Speaker. today I introduce legislation that will help address the impact of the Compacts of Free Association on affected jurisdictions like Guam and Hawaii. I continue to support the intent of the Compacts. and I understand the benefits these E35 agreements have for our nation and our security. However. the costs borne by our local governments for providing social services to Compact migrants are unsustainable. and Congress must act to provide relief for affected jurisdictions who have spent millions of local funds to support the Compacts and migrants. COFA migrants make positive contributions to our communities. but insufficient support from the federal government causes a significant socioeconomic strain on our island communities. This strain only increases. especially in the face of uncertain economic conditions in the Freely Associated States as well as the impact climate change is having on Pacific island nations. The bill I am introducing. as well as proposals that I have made in the past. will provide relief and empower local jurisdictions with solutions to reduce the burden of Compacts.
Keywords matched
migrants