Chicago City Wire

Washington, D.C. - Vice Ranking Member Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03) released the following statement after she introduced her amendment to the Republican Border bill during a 19-hour markup on the Homeland Security Committee. Her amendment would establish a 100% reimbursement rate from FEMA for municipalities providing Emergency Food and Shelter Program services to migrants. The amendment was unanimously supported by all Democrats on the Homeland Security Committee and was rejected by the Republican Majority by a vote of 17:15. 

“The city of Chicago is clear about the right to seek asylum. Illinois is clear about the right to seek asylum. I am clear about the right to seek asylum,” said Homeland Security Committee Vice Ranking Member Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03).

“As one of the major cities in the country receiving migrants from the southwest border, Chicago’s community-based nonprofit organizations, the city officials, the city council members, the state representatives and state senators, and the governor are working overtime to welcoming refugees and providing shelter, coordinating intake, administering services, and looking ahead to what is needed for effective coordination across the city, state, and federal government. 

$5.5 million from FEMA’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program have made a critical impact in concert state-dedicated funds. But the reality is that we are quickly exhausting those resources and need additional resources for rapid rehousing as well as expanded flexibility to not limit services to only the first 30 days. 

While not a comprehensive fix, my amendment would establish a 100% reimbursement rate from FEMA so that the essential work that nonprofit providers are giving in coordination with cities like Chicago can continue without prolonging a dangerous break in services. These services include providing shelter, food, and supportive services to individuals and families.

I’m disappointed, but not surprised, that Republicans blocked a straightforward, life-saving amendment and made it clear they will keep undermining the right to seek asylum. I remain committed to working hand in hand with my colleagues at every level of government in Chicago, Illinois, and D.C. to ensure our communities receiving migrants have the necessary humanitarian assistance and services needed from the federal government to be open and welcoming.”

Original source can be found here.