Willis Releases Statement on Haitian Migrants in Springfield

COLUMBUS – State Representative Bernie Willis (R-Springfield) has released the following statement regarding the influx of Haitian migrants to Springfield:

“The Haitian migrant influx into Springfield is the result of failed Federal immigration policy under the Biden-Harris Administration. Local leaders have been trying to sound the alarm for years that the mass migration into a community of only 60,000 people was pushing this community to its breaking point. Now, they are facing a 15,000 to 20,000 increase in population that is straining the local services, leading to increased time for citizens to receive crucial public benefits. There was no communication from the Federal government that they were going to start sending migrants to Springfield and there also has been no support. Springfield has been left on its own to figure out these problems.   

The real issue is the language barrier. This is creating challenges for educators, law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and other service providers. Translators are needed at public service departments and these additional costs are straining already stretched resources. Without immediate federal assistance, Springfield risks further overwhelming its local infrastructure and jeopardizing the well-being of both its residents and the migrant community. It's time for the Biden-Harris Administration to step up and provide the necessary support to ensure the community can continue to thrive while addressing this unprecedented challenge.”

Willis is the State Representative of the 74th House District, which includes the City of Springfield.