WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Tuesday released the following statement:

“The Emergency Food and SheIter Program is a vital tool that provides humanitarian aid to migrants and helps the Border Patrol reduce overcrowding at its facilities. If Republicans were serious about more effectively managing the border, they would support increased funding for a program that the Border Patrol views as critical. Instead, they want chaos, so they cheer on the Governors of Texas and Florida as they use millions in taxpayer dollars to exploit desperate and vulnerable people with cruel political stunts. I hope my Republican colleagues will put politics aside to support funding in the upcoming CR for a program that provides humanitarian assistance for migrants and their families,” said Murphy.

In July, Murphy announced the fiscal year 2023 Homeland Security bill, which includes $200 million for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) to provide funding to non-profit organizations, critical partners working with DHS to offer food, housing, and transportation for noncitizens and ultimately reduces pressure on Border Patrol operational capabilities.

 

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