What They Are Saying: Governor Hochul Calls on President Biden to Direct the Federal Government to Provide Work Authorizations, Support, and Shelter for More Than 100,000[...]

What They Are Saying: Governor Hochul Calls on President Biden to Direct the Federal Government to Provide Work Authorizations, Support, and Shelter for More Than 100,000 Asylum Seekers in New York State

Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul called on President Biden to take executive action and direct additional federal resources to the State of New York as it manages the unprecedented influx of asylum seekers arriving in New York. In a formal request sent to the White House this morning, Governor Hochul outlined specific, outstanding requests, including expedited work authorizations for asylum seekers, financial assistance for New York City and New York State, the use of federal land and facilities for temporary shelter sites, and Title 32 designation to provide federal funding for the nearly 2,000 New York National Guard members currently providing logistical and operational support across the State.

Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado said, "We need to meet this moment and provide asylum seekers with compassion and needed services. The State is working to address this humanitarian crisis, but we can't do it alone. We're calling on the federal government to provide the full range of funding, facilities, and work authorization to this effort. We owe it to New Yorkers and to those coming here for a better life to find solutions at all levels of government to address this crisis and help our nation move forward."

Representative Jerrold Nadler said, "I am grateful for Governor Hochul's work to address this humanitarian challenge. I am working closely with Governor Hochul, Mayor Adams, the Biden Administration and my colleagues in the New York Congressional Democratic Delegation to ensure that New York has the necessary funds in needs while also working to establish quicker administrative pathways to expedite work authorizations for asylum seekers. This year, the Delegation has delivered more than $143 million for New York City through the FEMA Emergency Food and Shelter Program and the new Shelter Services Program. While this was a step in the right direction, we need an all-hands-on-deck strategy at every level of government to address this challenge. It's going to require Congressional Republicans coming to the table to work with us to ensure that New York City has the resources and support it needs to aid those who have sought refuge."

Representative Adriano Espaillat said, "We are a nation of immigrants and our response to the current influx of asylum seekers must be met with humanity. New York City alone has now welcomed over 100,000 migrants since Spring 2022. In response, we have opened close to 200 different emergency shelters and over a dozen large-scale humanitarian relief centers around the city. New York also secured federal approval to convert Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn into a migrant shelter, and I applaud Governor Hochul's ongoing efforts and partnership to make this a reality. Every level of government is working hand in hand to provide increased support, shelter, expedited work authorizations, and TPS for Venezuelans. Additionally, it remains critical that the upcoming supplemental include language that guarantees funding to New York City, which is shouldering the biggest burden in the country. Without a doubt, addressing the nation's asylum seeker crisis will require increased assistance from all of our federal partners to ensure asylum seekers who arrive in the U.S. get the shelter and care they deserve in their hour of need. Together, we must manage this crisis and support the needs of our great city."

Representative Joe Morelle said, "I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership in dealing with the large number of asylum seekers in New York State. I believe strongly in work requirements for all who seek asylum in the United States and am proud to partner with the Governor on common sense changes to asylum rules. I will continue to push for federal aid to ensure asylees can support their families and live independently."

Representative Jamaal Bowman said, "Migrants and asylum-seekers fleeing violence and persecution deserve dignity and compassion, beginning with wraparound services that meet their basic needs. Our country would not be here without the culture, creativity, and hard work of all immigrants. I am proud to join Governor Hochul in this urgent call on the administration to direct more resources to us in New York so we can continue to support migrants. The New York State Department of Labor is also taking important steps to give asylum seekers opportunities to get work authorization so they can contribute to our economy and support themselves and their loved ones. Every migrant and asylum seeker deserves to receive work authorization. I hope that these new initiatives will be just some of many steps towards an immigration system that centers compassion, empathy, and humanity."

Representative Ritchie Torres said, "There's no question the federal government has fundamentally failed the City of New York. The wave of migration that has swept New York City has put unprecedented strain on our shelter system and available resources. It's simply unsustainable. And while we should be a welcoming sanctuary to asylum seekers from around the world, the burden of this crisis has wholly fallen on the shoulders of New York City and State. I support Governor Kathy Hochul for urgently calling on the President to provide more federal support, temporary shelter, humanitarian aid, and to expedite work authorization for asylum seekers, which I believe he has the power to do unilaterally. The way out of this crisis isn't shelter - it's legal work status and independent living."

Representative Dan Goldman said, "New York has served as a model for the nation in meeting the growing needs of tens of thousands of asylum seekers, but the lack of federal support has pushed our City and State to the brink. Without significant support from the federal government, our City and State services are overwhelmed, threatening a humanitarian crisis jeopardizing the public health and safety of New Yorkers. Since Republicans in Congress refuse to pass bipartisan, comprehensive immigration legislation to fix out broken system, it is left to the Biden Administration to use its authority to provide essential federal assistance for a federal issue. The responsibility simply cannot fall on New York alone."

State Senator Julia Salazar said, "Governor Hochul is taking the decisive action that our state needs in a difficult situation by imploring the Biden administration to work with New York to compassionately and competently welcome asylum-seekers and refugees. Work authorizations must be expedited by the federal government so that our new neighbors, who are eager to work, can support their families as well as contribute to our state and local economies. New Yorkers have stepped up to welcome immigrants in our communities throughout our history, and we expect the federal government to do its part in helping us continue to do that."

State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, "The thousands of people arriving in New York in recent months face the heartbreaking choice of working without authorization and jeopardizing their asylum application or subsisting on thinly stretched government support. I applaud Governor Hochul for calling on President Biden to authorize migrants to legally work and for directing the Department of Labor to assist and expedite applications. All people have a right to work and deserve a fighting chance at the American Dream."

State Senator John W. Mannion said, "Federal resources and expedited work permits for asylum seekers are immediate steps that can help address this crisis and I support Governor Hochul's direct request for White House assistance. The migrants are in the United States legally and chose to come to New York, as permitted under federal law. The federal government and our federal elected officials must come together and fix this broken system and deliver long overdue, and bipartisan, comprehensive immigration reform."

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, "New York State has been a welcoming home to those seeking to build the American Dream for generations. Now, Governor Hochul has demonstrated the leadership that has been lacking in several other states led by those looking to politicize vulnerable families. Moreover, workforce shortages in upstate are especially challenging, and we now have hardworking asylum seekers eager to build a new life in underpopulated cities and towns. I fully support Governor Hochul's call for expedited work permits, and new assistance programs through the Department of Labor."

State Senator Cordell Cleare said, "A national crisis requires national solutions and countrywide support; that is why I completely agree with Governor Hochul's principled call for more Federal support from President Biden and Congress to fully address the Asylum Seeker Crisis in New York. This particular crisis is doubly destructive because it is exacerbating the pre-existing housing affordability challenges here in New York City, which are disproportionately borne by Black People and Black Communities."

State Senator Kevin Thomas said, "The unprecedented influx of migrants is exacerbating local resources, and we are struggling to process and place those in need. I support the Governor's request to the federal government for expedited work permits and additional funding, we need help at every level of government to move on this as quickly as possible before the strain on our municipalities becomes unmanageable."

State Senator Monica Martinez said, "The migrant crisis falls on the hands of our federal elected officials, both Democrats and Republicans, who have yet to fulfill their responsibility of creating a sustainable pathway to citizenship. As a result, we continue to use an antiquated system that leads to situations like this. As a nation, we have been strengthened by the economic contributions made by immigrants. I applaud Governor Hochul and her response to this crisis by asking our Federal counterparts to provide necessary assistance."

Assembly Deputy Speaker Phil Ramos said, "Migrants are the backbone of the New York economy, and New York has always been a beacon of hope, which the status of liberty represents to all who make it here. This is the New York way, and we must always keep that tradition. The Governor is acting in good faith towards that promise by calling on the federal government to support these asylum seekers with access to clean and safe shelters, providing needed resources, and allowing asylum seekers the ability to work sooner. These are reasonable requests that the federal government must act upon so that people's lives can continue, and these asylum seekers can start walking toward the path of self-determination. I thank Governor Hochul and my colleagues for coming together to make this request to the federal government. I look forward to a continued collaborative relationship between New York State and the federal government to support these asylum seekers who are counting on us."

Assemblymember Kimberly Jean-Pierre said, "The Governor's request to the federal government today reflects the urgency and action needed in order to address the growing migrant crisis in our state. This is a delicate and contentious situation, but it needs to be met with a harmonized response and, most importantly, compassion."

Assemblymember Gina Sillitti said, "New York State is facing a humanitarian crisis and we need the Federal Government to step up. I join the Governor in her renewed calls to help alleviate the problems that have arisen. However, the current political discourse around this crisis is incredibly concerning. We have a long history on how we treat new arrivals in this country, from indiscriminate hatred directed at my Italian brethren to the racism endured by Asian Americans to the Jewish Refugees turned away while fleeing the Nazi Regime. Let's do better. Our nation's immigration system has been broken for too long. Washington needs to step up and provide real solutions, and until they do, they need to provide us real resources to address this crisis."

Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said, "The influx of asylum seekers is an unparalleled humanitarian challenge that requires a solution at the national level. I stand behind Governor Hochul's appeals for the federal government to take action, which includes accelerating the process of granting work authorization to asylum seekers and providing immediate federal financial support."

Assemblymember Taylor Darling said, "It is imperative the federal government step up and lead in the face of this unprecedented humanitarian crisis. I applaud and support Governor Hochul's leadership on this crisis and echo her calls for Washington to act."

Assemblymember Charles D. Lavine said, "With New York State already having committed vast resources to help alleviate the ongoing influx of migrants, I fully support Governor Hochul's request for assistance from the federal government. The governor's principled, proactive, and collaborative style of problem-solving has never been more evident than in how she is addressing this crisis."

Assemblymember Fred Thiele said, "Governor Hochul's proactive approach to addressing the asylum seeker crisis reflects her deep understanding of the urgent needs facing our state, particularly in industries such as hospitality and farming, which have faced labor shortages across eastern long island. Her call to shorten the expedited work authorization period from 180 days is not only a practical step to ensure that workers can swiftly contribute to our economy but also a compassionate gesture that recognizes the value of their skills and labor. Furthermore, the Governor's request for financial assistance from the federal government underscores her commitment to finding comprehensive solutions that benefit both our state and the individuals seeking refuge within our borders. It is evident that the long-term failure of federal immigration policy has contributed to these challenges, and now it is time for the federal government to take responsibility and provide the necessary support."

Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, "I strongly support the Governor in her efforts to ease the immigration issues that are facing New York and in asking the federal government for assistance in making sure new arrivals have access to jobs and housing as soon as possible."

Manhattan Borough President Mark Levinesaid, "I'm exceptionally proud of the way that New York continues to step up and welcome newcomers to our communities, but we cannot do it alone. We need more help from the federal government so that we can meet this moment with the compassion and support that these asylum seekers need. It is imperative that the federal government take steps to expedite the work authorization process, and we need federal assistance to help fund the housing, healthcare, educational and social service needs of these new New Yorkers. All levels of government must work seamlessly together for us to succeed."

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson said, "In the midst of this unprecedented crisis, it's critical we have leaders who will stand up for the people of New York. We're grateful to Governor Hochul for showing leadership on this issue and join her call for additional federal support."

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, "Governor Hochul's actions reflect New York's commitment to addressing asylum seekers within our communities at large. We stand with the Governor in urging President Biden for vital federal assistance, shelter provisions and expedited work authorization for over 100,000 asylum seekers. These men and women are here, and we need accelerated work authorization to help them become productive members of our community - something we all know they want."

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, "The City of Albany and other communities across New York State have stepped up to help asylum seekers who have come to the United States in search of a better life, and it's due time for the federal government to assist in that effort. I echo Governor Hochul's call for expedited work authorizations, funding for vital health and legal services, and making federal land available for temporary housing. Our nation's economy depends on us getting this right, and that will only happen when asylum seekers can do the one thing they so desperately want to do: work."

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, "Governor Hochul's plea to the White House is what New York State and local communities need. The migrant crisis demands federal resources and expedited work authorization processes as quickly as possible. Cities and states can't be expected to manage a challenge of this scale without a comprehensive national approach."

Ithaca Mayor Laura Lewis said, "I stand in support of the Governor's advocacy for migrant workers in our community. Our workforce welcomes asylum seekers who contribute to our economy in many vital sectors such as hospitality, agriculture, and tourism. We join the Governor in urging the federal government to increase financial support and expedite work permits for asylum seekers."

Chair of the Tompkins County Legislature Shawna Black said, "Housing and providing access to humanitarian services for thousands of asylum seekers is a monumental task - it's time for the Federal Government to offer more resources and swift policy changes to support New York State's handling of this crisis. Along with access to federal resources, we need to see movement on granting work authorization for those arriving. In our community we have a low unemployment rate and continue to see job openings across many industries, some that can be filled by asylum seekers looking for work. Tompkins County wants to be a part of a humane and well-resourced response to this crisis, if more resources are made available to New York State this can be a win-win-win for everyone from the federal to the local level."

Babylon Town Supervisor and Head of the Suffolk County Supervisors Association Rich Schaffer said, "I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership and advocacy amid this unprecedented crisis. It is past time for Washington to step up and act."

East Hampton Town Supervisor Peter Van Scoyoc said, "I support Governor Hochul's approach to the challenges posed by the influx to New York of asylum seekers, in seeking support and resources from the federal government. Migrants who come to the U.S. fleeing untenable conditions and in search of asylum should be met in our country with a humanitarian response and provided assistance and basic necessities. These resources, however, should be issued on a federal level and provided to states and municipalities that could easily be overwhelmed by the demand," said East Hampton Town Supervisor Peter Van Scoyoc. "Of particular importance will be actions by the federal government to provide these asylum seekers with a pathway to gain authorization to work, so that they can productively participate in our society."

Town of Southampton Supervisor Jay Schneiderman said, "Immigration is a Federal issue, yet the financial burden of managing thousands of asylum seekers has fallen on state and local government. I join the Govenor's call for the Federal government to reimburse our taxpayers for the cost of managing this humanitarian crisis, not of our making."

Mario Cilento, President of the New York State AFL-CIO said, "Migrants come to our country seeking a better life and providing them with the dignity of work here in New York State is the first step toward helping them achieve that goal. We fully support the governor's call for the federal government to expedite and expand temporary protective status. Removing barriers to work is the best way to help individuals become self-sufficient and improve their quality of life."

Vincent Alvarez, President of the New York City Central Labor Council said, "All working people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, whether they were born in this country or are newly arrived. By focusing on work authorization and pathways to employment, Governor Hochul is showing how she values the hard working women and men of New York City. We will continue to work with the Governor, the Department of Labor and local stakeholders to address the asylum seeker crisis and move our community forward."

Melinda Person, President of New York State Teachers United said, "We echo Gov. Hochul's call for federal aid. The entire state will feel the impact of relocation efforts, especially as kids and educators return to classrooms in a few weeks. The federal government must send targeted funding so our newest students and their families can thrive."

Michael E. Hellstrom & Donato A. Bianco, Vice Presidents of LIUNA said, "We stand in support of Governor Hochul's call for additional federal resources to deal with the migrant crisis in New York City. More than 100,000 migrants have arrived in New York City since last spring, and it has placed unprecedented strain on city and state resources. The City's shelter population has reached record levels and last week alone, an additional 2,700 migrants arrived in the city in need of housing and social services. Additional federal resources-which may include using federal installations for temporary housing-- can help ease the shelter and housing shortage. Resources can also be used to employ an effective casework system to better help asylum seekers exit city shelter services and gain legal work status. Work authorization is paramount to ensure migrants don't navigate to hazardous territories such as an underground construction economy that preys upon and exploits vulnerable workers like migrants. LIUNA was founded more than a century ago by proud immigrants and we continue to work for fair treatment of immigrant workers in this nation and we represent more than 40,000 members in New York State. We believe the unprecedented challenges New York faces require unprecedented support from the federal government. It is in everyone's best interest to support, process, and protect migrant workers as they navigate the asylum process and seek to care for themselves and their families."

Stuart Appelbaum, President of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union said, "Migrants are fleeing their home countries in crisis, leaving with little more than the clothes on their backs to secure safety for their families. Many of them endure dangerous conditions just to arrive in this country in hopes of a safer life. New York State and our own union have proudly continued to support the growing migrant population. Local and state resources, however, are not sufficient.The RWDSU joins Governor Kathy Hochul in calling for federal assistance so we can better support migrant workers arriving here in New York. United, we are calling for federal work authorization, federal financial assistance and for the use of federal lands and facilities for sheltering migrants who need our help."

President Rich Maroko, Hotel & Gaming Trades Council said, "Thank you, Governor Hochul, for issuing this critical call for assistance to our federal government to address the asylum-seeker crisis in New York. We have a dire need for aggressive steps to expedite work authorizations, provide the State and City with financial assistance, and offer much-needed additional space to house asylum-seekers. We stand with Governor Hochul and whole-heartedly support her call for federal leadership to assist New York with this growing crisis."

Nancy Hagans, President of NYSNA said, "New York nurses, many of whom are immigrants themselves, have always been proud to care for the immigrant community in New York City and throughout the state. As an immigrant from Haiti, my own family depended on the compassionate care of Kings County Hospital nurses to stay healthy, and we also experienced the language barriers and obstacles to healthcare many immigrants face. The recent arrival of new migrants to our city has only increased nurses' resolve to provide the highest quality care to all New Yorkers, regardless of race, class, or immigration status. However, it has also exacerbated the existing inequities in our healthcare system. Our commitment to patient care is unwavering, and with the city and state's support, nurses will continue to be part of the solution to this crisis by doing what we do best, keeping all New Yorkers healthy."

Wayne Spence, President of the Public Employees Federation said, "For over a year now, I have watched busload after busload of migrants arrive in New York. I have watched New York City struggle with limited resources and New York State struggle to provide some semblance of humanity and dignity to these fellow human beings. As an immigrant myself, I can't begin to imagine what these folks have been through and are now experiencing. I support Governor Hochul' s request to the federal government to do more. Although better than sleeping in the streets, a tent city on the grounds of a psychiatric center cannot be the solution, even temporarily. This crisis is directly impacting the safety of PEF members who work at the psychiatric facility. Without legal status, these migrant workers could be subject to abuse or mistreatment from their employers - that's why Governor Hochul's call for legal work authorization is so critical. Her strong support of the people of New York has been unwavering throughout this crisis, and we will always stand with her to support New York workers. But it is time for the federal government to step up and take responsibility. Governor Hochul is correct:

Long Island Federation of Labor President John R. Durso said, "We must not allow bad actors to exploit the circumstances of the current refugee crisis. Many of the migrants being discussed in the media today, are by definition, refugees. They're fleeing dangerous conditions with dreams of access to a better life, oft referred to as the 'American Dream.' We fully support the Governor's call for expedited work authorizations, which will help make that dream a reality. Furthermore, this action protects good business owners and working Americans from being disadvantaged by criminal employers who would exploit those seeking a better life just to line their own pockets."

Jose Maldonado, President of UNITE HERE Local 100 said, "In the midst of this unprecedented crisis, it's critical we have leaders who will stand up for the people of New York. We're grateful to Governor Hochul for showing leadership on this issue. I witnessed how hundreds of immigrant lined up this week hoping to be trained and able to get a job so I join her call for additional federal support."

Kathryn Wylde, President & CEO, Partnership for New York City said, "The business community supports Governor Hochul's demands for federal intervention to address the humanitarian crisis that is a direct consequence of our nation's failure to adopt and enforce an effective immigration policy."

Andrew Rigie, Executive Director of the NYC Hospitality Alliance said, "As more and more folks arrive in New York seeking asylum, it's critical they're provided an opportunity to work lawfully in their journey for a better life. So, while this is a moral issue, it's also an economic issue because restaurants and other small businesses across our city need workers to keep their businesses running and are prepared to hire them. That's why we commend and stand in strong solidarity with Governor Hochul and other leaders calling directly on President Biden to provide expedited work authorization for asylum seekers now as an essential step in addressing this humanitarian crisis."

Heather Mulligan President & CEO of the Business Council of New York State said," Businesses across New York are looking for workers, and that's why The Business Council of New York State supports Governor Hochul's call for federal aid to address this crisis. We have workers ready to work and employers ready to hire them - as long as the work authorization arrives. We appreciate the Governor's commitment to boosting jobs and economic growth."

Robert Duffy, President and CEO of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce said, "Economic growth requires a strong and talented workforce, an area of need for Greater Rochester and communities around the state and nation. We encourage the federal government to grant work authorization to the thousands of asylum seekers who are eager to work, and we stand ready to help these hard-working men and women get placed into jobs once they are eligible. We thank Governor Hochul for her strong leadership on this issue and we join and support her call for federal support that will help catalyze our region's success.There are jobs and opportunities in New York for people who can legally work, and with federal support, we can make this a reality for asylum seekers."

Frankie Miranda, President and CEO of the Hispanic Federation said, "Asylum seekers are fleeing civil strife, persecution, violence, natural disasters, and so much more. Yet, those arriving to the United States have found themselves being used by politicians who are busing them to New York with little resources, no information, and zero communication. Asylum seekers deserve stability, shelter, and the ability to provide for their families. What Governor Hochul is calling for - expedited work authorization, new housing facilities, and additional federal resources - would accomplish just that. I applaud her leadership and her work to support our new neighbors, and I look forward to working with her administration to empower, support, and advocate on behalf of asylum seeking families."

President and CEO, Retail Council of New York State Melissa O'Connor said, "Retailers throughout the state have a vested interest in expediting the work authorization process for those individuals seeking asylum," said Melissa O'Connor, President and CEO, Retail Council of New York State. "The retail industry is still facing a workforce shortage, with the holiday shopping season on the horizon, and allowing asylum seekers to legally fill these roles will support families and the economy. On behalf of thousands of stores in New York, we appreciate Governor Hochul's efforts in working with the federal government on an effective solution."

Mark Eagan, President and CEO of the Capital Region Chamber and Center for Economic Growth said, "The Capital Region's economic growth and vitality depends on having a strong reliable workforce. Governor Hochul's call to fix the migrant crisis through work authorization is the right approach to keep our communities growing and thriving. We're grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to economic growth."

Randy Peers, President and CEO Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce said, "The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce stands in full support of fast-tracking work authorization for asylum seekers, and we stand with our officials, including Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams in urging the Federal Government to take action on this issue. Accelerating employment eligibility makes good economic sense and it's simply the right thing to do. Brooklyn employers need workers now, and the asylum seekers want to work. Let's put politics aside and work towards a meaningful solution by allowing the asylees to provide for themselves and their families."

Dr. Marsha Gordon, President & CEO of the Business Council of Westchester said, "The Business Council of Westchester, Westchester's largest business organization focused on economic development and advocacy, strongly supports Governor Hochul's call for the federal government to provide support for the asylum seekers -- especially for work authorization. In this tight labor market, finding qualified workers in diverse sectors is the number one challenge facing our members and this federal action could make a significant difference. Governor Hochul is showing true leadership, opening the door to economic opportunity and staying true to our New York values of tolerance and inclusivity for new immigrants."

Robert Simpson, President and CEO of CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity said, "Central New York is facing a workforce shortage that is stifling economic activity and our ability to produce products and services that matter to the world. The Governor's appeal for work authorizations for migrants seeking asylum in our country is a pragmatic, near-term solution to this shortage, and to the current immigration crisis. Employers across our region have a history of welcoming workers from across the world to strengthen our economy and I am confident that they will do so again if given the opportunity. The many positive economic impacts of our refugee and New American communities on Central New York are undeniable and supported by data."

Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, New York Immigration Coalition said, "New York has welcomed immigrants into our neighborhoods, communities and workplaces for centuries, and our State is that much better because of it. These recent asylum seekers -- our newest New Yorkers -- should not be excluded from making those same contributions. Governor Hochul's focus on work authorization through Temporary Protected Status is critical, and we join her in calling on the federal government for additional humanitarian aid."

Rich Nightingale, Executive Director of Westhab said, "New York is working to live up to its ideals, welcoming asylum seekers and working with nonprofit organizations like Westhab to provide services and support. The individuals and families we are currently serving are eager to work and contribute to their new communities. It is clear that additional federal support, especially around work authorization, is needed to help people enter the workforce, meet the existing needs in our economy, and strengthen the community for everyone."

Jan Fisher, Executive Director of NonProfit Westchester said, "As we welcome asylum seekers to our county and state, it's critical that the federal government do their part and invest their fair share to support state and local governments and nonprofits who are doing the important work in this area. We're grateful to Governor Hochul for showing leadership on this issue and join her call for additional federal support."

Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association said, "The New York State Restaurant Association strongly supports special work authorization for asylum seekers, and we thank Governor Hochul as well as Commissioners Reardon and Bray for their continued leadership in elevating the need for these important changes. Our members continue to face workforce shortages and hiring challenges following the pandemic. Allowing working papers for asylum seekers will not only support our operators' ability to fill hiring needs and bring the restaurant industry back to full service but will also create a path into the industry for these individuals, creating a new, and necessary, workforce pipeline."

Wayne Ho, President & CEO of Chinese-American Planning Council said, "The humanitarian crisis urgently needs additional resources and support from the federal government. Like other community based organizations, the Chinese-American Planning Council has stretched its own capacity to serve our newest neighbors, from providing childcare vouchers, afterschool programs, and adult literacy classes to sponsoring start-up job training programs like 86 the Barrier," said Wayne Ho, President and CEO of the Chinese-American Planning Council. "We must ensure that asylum seeker families can survive and thrive in New York, which will require increased collaboration between the federal, state and city government and CBOs. We join our allies in calling for increased housing, job, legal, health, and social supports for our newest New Yorkers."

Peter Tu, General Advisor of the Flushing Chinese Business Association said, "New York has always welcomed immigrants and new Americans, and today we must use those values as more asylum seekers arrive. Governor Hochul's call for federal support and focus on work authorization will help end this crisis and ensure a better life for all who seek to call New York home. As an immigrant myself, I applaud Governor Hochul's wise call to enable migrants with work permit and become economically self sufficient."

Elise de Castillo, Esq., Executive Director of the Central American Refugee Center said,"We applaud Governor Hochul's efforts to ensure that the newest New Yorkers are met with the resources they need to rebuild their lives in our state. But, New York cannot do it alone. The federal government must provide additional support to ensure that these new arrivals are able to fully become part of their new communities across New York State."

Latinos Unidos de Long Island Founder Pilar Moya said, "Governor Hochul's consideration of allowing asylum seekers to receive a work visa in less than 90 days demonstrates a compassionate and pragmatic approach to immigration policy. By streamlining the process for asylum seekers to obtain a work visa, Hochul would not only alleviate the financial strain on these individuals and their families, but also contribute to the local economy by enabling them to participate in the workforce sooner. This policy shift could potentially reduce the burden on the asylum system and promote integration, as individuals would be better able to establish themselves and contribute to their new communities. By embracing swift access to work visas, we bolster asylum seekers' integration, self-sufficiency, and local economic contribution. We extend our sincere gratitude to Governor Hochul for her decision and that the proposal will contribute to a brighter future for New York State."

Long Island Farm Bureau President Robert Carpenter, "Farm Bureau has long been calling for immigration reform to address serious labor shortages that place our farms and processing facilities in jeopardy. We support Gov. Hochul's request to the federal government to expedite work visas for migrants who have proper documentation and who want to work on farms in New York. A strong viable food system is important for all New York State residents and we will continue to work with the Department of Agriculture and Markets and others to continue feeding the people of New York State."

Wanda Sanchez Day, General Counsel/Senior Policy Counsel for OLA of Eastern Long Island said, "OLA of Eastern Long Island is a non-profit organization that has served the needs of migrants and immigrants on the East End of Long Island for over 20 years. We see that migrants contribute greatly in labor, art, intellect and entrepreneurial endeavors to the rich fabric of our communities but some need help while seeking to integrate. Governor Hochul's Declaration of Emergency and Emergency Order dated May 9, 2023, that aimed to ensure funding to municipalities to address the influx of and humanitarian needs of asylum seekers into New York and our communities and was decisive and a step in the right direction. We support her request that the Biden/Harris Administration expedite the work authorization process for asylum seekers down to no more than 15 days as this will assist them to quickly begin a life of self-reliance. Equally important is the need for critical federal funding to aid States that provide the adequate and safe housing they need while they await the decisions on their applications. The extremely scarce resources of local governments and nonprofits, cannot be relied on to significantly address the increased migration with public donations and local taxes. Reliance on these very scarce resources to find answers to serious current National problems serves only to compound the harm to the communities who are willing to assist and to asylum seekers."

Afrikana Founder Adama Bah said, "More than 90,000 migrants have reached NYC, where New Yorkers welcome them with dignity. We acknowledge the difficulties ahead and recognize the need for the federal government to reconsider its policy regarding work permits for asylum seekers. This change won't just support the efforts of on-the-ground organizations, but also holds the potential to reshape history, demonstrate solidarity with our immigrant community, and foster economic growth within the United States."

Thomas Yu, Executive Director, Asian Americans for Equality said, "As one of the front line organizations assisting with the influx of asylum seekers in Jackson Heights, Asian Americans For Equality (AAFE) emphatically welcomes all resources necessary to support and integrate the tremendous needs of migrants in our communities. We greatly appreciate Governor Hochul's leadership and direction of resources to this issue, and look forward to the State's resources combined with City initiatives under Mayor Adams, to make New York City a place that welcomes those in need from all over the world."

First Baptist Cathedral of Westbury Bishop Lionel Harvey said, "As we examine this very critical issue that we are confronted with, it makes sense and it benefits the broader community to lift the 90-day work restriction on migrants who come here in search of the American dream to contribute to society. New Yorkers have always been compassionate, understanding and fair as it relates to helping others achieve their ultimate goals. But it is not fair for us to take on the burden alone. Governor Hochul understands in order for those goals to be achieved, the Federal Government must provide sustained financial support as well as allowing federal land and facilities to be used for shelter."

Reverend Dr. AR Bernard, Christian Cultural Center said, "The migration of people will always be a crisis, because of its social, and political impact. Significant waves of migration have taken place here in NYC for the last 150 years. That's why the city is so diverse. The city's reaction has varied. There have been times of acceptance and integration, but also periods of discrimination and backlash. There is no one size fits all solution. Right now it's going to take some serious policy changes to make a difference in what's happening. And our elected officials must have the courage to make those decisions. I fully support Governor Hochul's call for federal aid to address the migrant crisis in NYC. It's going to take serious dollars and a comprehensive plan that provides more than shelter. And it must not be at the expense of the quality of life of our local communities. Which is worse, housing them in a controlled, humane environment or having them sleep on the streets of our neighborhoods? My prayers are with Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams for the wisdom and courage to make the right decisions."

Bishop Orlando Findlyater, New Hope Housing Corporation said, "I'm delighted to hear that the Federal Government is releasing Floyd Bennett Field to be used as a shelter to house asylum speakers. Thank you Governor Hochul for making this possible and for providing the $20 million dollars to erect the tents to house the asylum seekers. NYC is in crisis and your leadership and support is certainly appreciated."

Reverend Terry Troia, President & CEO of the Project Hospitality said, "Project Hospitality is deeply grateful to our Governor for seeking financial support from the federal government, the entity responsible for our nation's reception of asylum seekers and recently arrived immigrant. Together all of us have role to play to ensure that people who have come seeking safety and from violence and hunger, live here in safety and without hunger. That is the moral action to which all of our are held accountable by our country's value and vision."

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