On Tuesday, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey declared a state of emergency, noting the public shelter system has become overwhelmed within the last year.
Healey said she’d requested federal government funding to address the problem, and vowed to expedite work permits to help free-up needed shelter space.
She pointed blame at federal officials for inaction on immigration law reforms and delays in processing paperwork that allows new arrivals to seek employment, thereby opening an avenue for migrants to provide for themselves.
On Tuesday, administration officials also revealed the launch of a new fund geared at making sure new arrivals have access to essentials such as clothing, food, transportation and hygiene items, along with medical and legal services.
Other states are contending with similar influxes of migrants. New York City Mayor Eric Adams called on President Joe Biden Wednesday to declare a nationwide state of emergency over the migrant crisis.
