Senator Blumenthal Questions Secretary Noem on Migrant Care Policy

Rescinded Migrant Care Policy

• 💡 Senator Blumenthal questioned Secretary Noem about the rescission of a policy that provided processing for pregnant and postpartum non-citizens and infants.
• 📌 The policy, rescinded on May 5th, was cited as "obsolete or misaligned with current agency guidance and immigration enforcement policies."
• ⚠️ A report from the Inspector General and a site visit by Senate Judiciary Committee staff indicated inadequate care for pregnant and postpartum women and infants in CBP and ICE custody.

Adequacy of Care in Custody

• 🎯 Secretary Noem stated that all individuals in custody receive appropriate care and accommodations for specific physical situations, including pregnancy.
• ❓ She offered to look into the specifics of the policy change and asked for concerns to be pointed out.
• 🗣️ Blumenthal asserted that Noem's claim of providing adequate care was factually untrue, emphasizing the importance of the rescinded policy for ensuring care.

FEMA Workforce Concerns

• 📉 Senator Blumenthal raised concerns about a potential fifth of the FEMA workforce leaving, questioning how the agency would meet the needs of constituents affected by recent floods.
• ⏳ He pressed Secretary Noem on her plan to replace the departing workforce, particularly leadership.
• 🚫 Noem stated that the problem was a failure of the Biden administration over the years, not necessarily a lack of personnel, and that more people do not automatically equal a better job.