Democratic Governor Declares State of Emergency in Response to Border Crisis Under Biden Administration

Massachusetts Governor Declares State of Emergency

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, a Democrat, has declared a state of emergency due to the overwhelming number of illegal immigrants entering the state. She stated that the influx of individuals has put a strain on the state's shelter system, causing it to be stretched thin. This declaration comes as a result of the ongoing border crisis under President Joe Biden's administration.

Attorney General Highlights Growing Number of Families in Need

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey has written a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, declaring a state of emergency due to the growing number of families with children, pregnant individuals, migrants, and refugees who lack safe shelter in the state. Healey highlights the rapid and continuous increase in this vulnerable population as the reason for the emergency declaration.

Factors Contributing to the Immigration Problem

The letter from Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey highlights the role of federal immigration policies in contributing to the immigration problem. However, Healey also argues that "burdensome barriers" preventing people from obtaining work authorizations are also a factor. He suggests that if migrants were able to access better job opportunities, it could attract more migrants to the state, further straining its resources.

Increase in Demand for Emergency Shelter

The demand for emergency shelter in Massachusetts has significantly increased over the past six months. In March 2022, 68 families per day sought assistance, which rose to over 100 families per day by July. This is a stark contrast to March 2022 when only 25 families per day requested help. The number of families entering emergency shelter is now more than double the amount during the pandemic and about one-third higher than pre-pandemic levels. However, the number of families finding safe, permanent housing has decreased by nearly two-thirds since 2019. Several factors contribute to these trends, including complex immigration laws, difficulties in obtaining work authorization for migrants, an influx of people coming to Massachusetts, and a lack of affordable housing in the state.

Urgent Appeal to the Federal Government

The article discusses the state of emergency in Massachusetts due to the increasing number of newly arrived families seeking safety and shelter. The shelter system in the state is described as being stretched thin. The author of the article is making an urgent appeal to the federal government to remove barriers that prevent new arrivals from accessing opportunities.

August 8, 2023: "We are facing an unprecedented number of illegal immigrants entering Massachusetts. Our shelter system is overwhelmed, and we need immediate assistance from the federal government to address this crisis. #StateOfEmergency"