Torres Statement on Emergency Border Supplemental to Provide Humanitarian Assistance for Children, Families at the Border
WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Norma J. Torres (D-CA) released the following statement on the legislation to provide humanitarian assistance for migrants at the southern border. The legislation provides $4.5 billion in emergency spending to address the humanitarian crisis at the border, with significant funding for priorities including legal assistance, food, water, and medical services, support services for unaccompanied children, alternatives to detention, and refugee services.
"As a mother, grandmother, and immigrant, I cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of the innocent children at the border, who are going without basic necessities like showers, soap, and toothpaste. I am proud that the House of Representatives has taken action to address this heartbreaking situation. Today, we voted to pass a bill that provides the much-needed medical care and shelter that the children at our border deserve. The bill also includes strong oversight provisions, including language ensuring that the supplemental funding cannot be used for the wall or for President Trump's deportation force. Additionally, the bill contains funds to reimburse the many local communities who have provided care for asylum seekers and migrants families in recent months. The situation at the border requires our immediate action, and this is a critical step to alleviate this humanitarian crisis."
Torres is a member of the powerful House Appropriations and Rules Committees.
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