New York Governor Urges Migrants to Seek Alternatives
New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, has expressed concerns about the strain on the city’s resources due to an influx of migrants, telling them to consider going elsewhere. She made these remarks during an interview on CNN Primetime following the Biden administration’s decision to grant Temporary Protected Status to around 500,000 Venezuelan migrants who arrived in the US on or before July 31. This status allows them to work in the country.
Governor Hochul commended President Biden for his approach but emphasized that New York is facing capacity challenges. She acknowledged the city’s desire to be generous and supportive to those facing a humanitarian crisis but stressed that there are limits to what they can do. Hochul mentioned that 41% of migrants in New York City’s shelters are from Venezuela, indicating the strain on resources.
She urged prospective migrants to consider applying for asylum in their home countries before leaving, emphasizing that this approach would provide a different experience upon arrival. Governor Hochul also stated that New York is focused on helping people transition from shelters to jobs.
When asked about the city’s “right to shelter” policy, she expressed support for suspending the mandate, explaining that it was originally intended for homeless individuals on the streets and those with AIDS but was never meant to be an unlimited obligation to house everyone.
Hochul’s office highlighted the importance of work authorization for migrants, stating that the ability to work is crucial to ending the migrant crisis. In August, New York City officials reported providing shelter and care to over 101,200 asylum seekers who arrived in the city since April 2022.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Independent
