Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia Introduces the "Protect Victims of Major Disasters Act"
Contact: Daniela Campos Lopez | daniela.campos@mail.house.gov | +1 202 227 0330
WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29) introduced The "Protect Victims of Major Disasters Act," aimed at forbidding the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from sharing a disaster victim's information to immigration agencies within the Department of Homeland Security for purposes of immigration enforcement. The purpose of this law is to create an environment of trust and encourage undocumented immigrants to seek help when they are affected by disasters.
"As I introduce this bill, I cannot stop thinking about the victims of natural disasters that have forfeited their claims to assistance because they are afraid of loved-ones being deported. It truly is heartbreaking that people who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and worldly possessions do not want to apply for help because they do not trust that the government will help them," said Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia."Disasters affect everyone regardless of their immigration status, and disproportionately impact immigrants. This bill is the first step towards helping immigrants regain their trust in our country and our system, as well as to continue the process of healing and reuniting our country. Restoring the soul of the nation includes strengthening our commitment to helping those who come in search of safety and opportunity. I will never stop fighting for the humanity of our immigrant brothers and sisters, and I look forward to continuing working alongside my colleagues to promote better conditions for everyone in our country."
"Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative is proud to support the Protect Victims of Major Disasters Act. It is a first step towards addressing the growth of wealth inequality after disasters and FEMA assistance. It is a first step towards ensuring that all residents who are eligible for FEMA relief and recovery assistance feel safe in applying for and receiving it," said Katy Atkiss, Disaster Resiliency Manager for the Houston Legal Services Collaborative.
"Workers Defense is proud to support the Protect Victims of Major Disasters Act. We applaud Congresswoman Garcia's leadership to ensure immigrant communities can seek help after a disaster. While this is an important step forward, there's still a need for broader reforms to ensure that immigration status is not a barrier to accessing FEMA aid as well as other necessary government interventions after a natural disaster," said Ana Gonzalez, Better Builder and Policy Director for the Workers Defense Project.
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Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2018, becoming the first Latina ever to represent the Texas 29th Congressional District. She serves on the House Judiciary and Financial Services Committees.