Bill would require state consultation on housing child migrants

Rep. Pete Olson (R-Texas) has introduced legislation to require the federal government to receive input from state and local officials before issuing grants for facilities holding unaccompanied immigrant children.

Under Olson’s measure, the Department of Health and Human Services would have to hold a public hearing within 90 days after choosing potential locations for housing facilities.

{mosads}Olson said it would would give more decision-making authority to areas directly affected by housing the child migrants.

“This legislation will give a voice to the communities that will be most directly impacted by this border crisis,” Olson said.

The Texas Republican said he had spoken with mayors who wanted to have more of a say in the process.

“The mayors I have spoken to rightfully feel there should be an open process where residents and elected officials have an opportunity to weigh in on whether or not their community can afford to provide care for these children until they are returned to their home countries,” Olson said.