MEMORIAL-JOHN F. LEUCK

104th Regular Session Introduced by Neil Anderson

SR 199 urges Congress to allow migrants from COFA states access to federal emergency aid, ensuring equitable support during disasters for these vulnerable communities.

Resolution Adopted

Summary of SR 199

Bill Number: SR 199
Title: Urging the United States Congress to Pass Legislation to Allow Migrants to the United States from Compacts of Free Association States to Benefit from Federal Emergency Aid
Status: Referred to PSM, JDC
Introduced: March 07, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: COFA, Federal Aid, Federal Disaster Relief

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SR 199 is to urge the United States Congress to enact legislation that would enable migrants from the Compact of Free Association (COFA) states to access federal emergency aid. This resolution highlights the need for equitable treatment of COFA migrants, particularly in times of disaster or emergency, ensuring they receive the same federal assistance as other residents.

Key Provisions

Advocacy for Legislation: The resolution calls on Congress to pass specific legislation that would extend federal emergency aid eligibility to migrants from COFA states, which include the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Palau.

Recognition of Contributions: The resolution emphasizes the contributions of COFA migrants to the U.S. economy and society, advocating for their inclusion in federal disaster relief programs.

Support for Vulnerable Populations: By urging Congress to act, the resolution aims to support vulnerable populations who may be disproportionately affected by natural disasters and emergencies.

Affected Parties

Migrants from COFA States: The primary beneficiaries of this resolution would be migrants from COFA states who currently do not have access to federal emergency aid.

Local Communities: Communities that host COFA migrants may also benefit from the resolution, as it could lead to improved disaster response and recovery efforts.

Federal Agencies: The resolution may impact how federal agencies allocate resources and respond to emergencies involving COFA migrants.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Timeline:

The resolution was introduced on March 07, 2025, and subsequently referred to the PSM (Public Safety and Military) and JDC (Judiciary) committees for further consideration.
Prior legislative actions include a referral to LBT/HHS (Labor, Business, and Technology/Health and Human Services) on March 12, 2025, and earlier referrals in 2024.

Companion Bills: SR 199 has related companion resolutions, SCR 224 and SCR 223, which may address similar issues or provide additional context to the legislative intent.

Conclusion

SR 199 serves as a formal request to Congress to recognize and support the needs of COFA migrants during emergencies by allowing them access to federal aid. This resolution underscores the importance of inclusivity in federal disaster relief efforts and aims to ensure that all residents, regardless of their immigration status, receive necessary assistance during times of crisis.