Letter to Administrator Long - Eligible Fire Victims Should Be Able to Seek Aid Without Fear of Immigration Targeting

Letter

Dear Administrator Long:

Thank you for your agency's swift response to the wildfires in California, and for your commitment to supporting our communities as they rebuild.

As we shift to long-term support for those affected by the disaster, we write to seek your assurance so that everyone who is legally entitled to federal aid will feel safe to apply for it. We have heard from constituents who are eligible for aid -- U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, and qualified aliens -- but are concerned that applying for FEMA assistance might expose their family members or neighbors to immigration enforcement.

As you know, Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced during the height of the crisis that routine immigration enforcement would be suspended in the affected areas, so that people could protect their lives without regard to immigration status. It is our understanding that FEMA does not gather information about immigration status for non-applicants, and we are hopeful that you can provide assurance that the verification process for eligible applicants will not be used to seek the immigration status of their neighbors, family members, or other household members. In light of our constituents' concerns, we would also appreciate an explanation of any process that might lead to information sharing between FEMA and ICE.

Thank you for your attention to our request, and for you continued support of our region's rebuilding efforts.

Sincerely,