Governors Call for Federal Action on Immigration, Urging Support for Biden’s Funding Request
In a united effort, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York, along with governors from eight other states, has appealed to the White House and Congress for federal intervention in the ongoing immigration crisis. The coalition, comprising the governors of Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New Mexico, is advocating for a $1.4 billion aid package to states and localities and a comprehensive legislative solution for border security.
New Jersey, a self-declared sanctuary state under Governor Phil Murphy was among those lawmakers pushing for federal funding. In recent weeks, buses of migrants headed to New York City have been diverted into the state.
This request follows President Biden’s proposal last year for a $106 billion supplemental funding initiative to address national security concerns, which includes $4.4 billion for a federal migration strategy.
The governors’ letter emphasizes the urgent need for federal coordination, funding for border and interior states and cities, and a commitment to modernize the U.S. immigration system.
The governors highlighted the strain placed on state and local resources due to the continuous influx of asylum seekers and migrants. They point out that the current challenges stem from a lack of Congressional action on necessary infrastructure and policies. The coalition calls for a transformational reform of the U.S. immigration system to address both the humanitarian needs of those seeking lawful entry and the public safety concerns of local communities.
Governor Hochul and her colleagues have pledged to work with the Biden Administration and Congress to develop practical solutions to overhaul the immigration system. The letter underscores the bipartisan nature of the issue and the need for swift and decisive action to address the growing challenges posed by global migration and its impact on states and cities across the country.