WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following Customs and Border Protection Acting Commissioner Mark Morgan’s announcement that Bahamian refugees fleeing the devastation of Hurricane Dorian can temporarily stay in the United States.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’m glad Commissioner Morgan has agreed to allow Bahamians fleeing the destruction on the islands to temporarily come to the United States. We should all be there to support our friends from the Bahamas. I would urge everyone at the state and local level of government to join us in supporting those fleeing the Bahamas. If the American Red Cross asks any county in Florida for temporary assistance housing refugees, I hope they will accommodate. We all have a responsibility to help our neighbors.

“I have had multiple conversations with the Bahamian Prime Minister to explain different ways their government can work with the United States. I continue to let him, and any official I speak to in the Bahamas, know that they need to be VERY clear about what help they need from the U.S. We know people are suffering on the islands and the U.S. stands ready to help with humanitarian aid. But, it is up to the Bahamian government to tell us what exactly is needed and to ensure they have a process in place to deliver it to the Bahamian people.”

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