Durbin Meets With Puerto Rican Groups To Discuss Local Agriculture And Food Insecurity
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today met with Chicago-based Puerto Rican Cultural Center (PRCC), along with representatives of the Puerto Rican Alliance (PRÁ) and the Power 4 Puerto Rico Coalition. During the meeting, they discussed the challenges of food security in Puerto Rico, and expanding local agricultural production on the island. Durbin is a cosponsor of the Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act, legislation that would enable Puerto Rico to fully participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
They also discussed Puerto Rico Tax Act 22, which is causing massive displacement of locals, and creating a tax haven on the island.
“It is in our interest to ensure Puerto Rico has the resources it needs to thrive,” Durbin said. “During today’s meeting, we discussed the importance of investing in family farmers in Puerto Rico, and expanding nutrition assistance to ensure Puerto Ricans are receiving the food and resources they need. I am fortunate to represent many Puerto Ricans in Chicago and always welcome opportunities to learn more about the priorities most important to PRCC, PRÁ, and the Power 4 Puerto Rico Coalition.”
Last Congress, Durbin cosponsored the Puerto Rican Self-Determination Act, legislation that would enable Puerto Ricans to determine their own political future and relationship with the United States.
A photo of the meeting is available here.
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