In response to a surge in temporary Haitian migrants in the city of Springfield, Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine announced a plan to send law enforcement and millions of dollars in healthcare resources to the area. The influx of about 15,000 Haitians since 2020 has put a strain on the city of approximately 59,000 residents and has brought national attention to the issue.
Governor DeWine emphasized that he does not oppose the Temporary Protected Status program that has allowed Haitians to come to Springfield, but he believes that the federal government needs to do more to assist communities dealing with the impact of increased migration. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has also been looking into legal avenues to address the situation, including the possibility of filing a lawsuit against the federal government.
The governor highlighted the additional resources that Ohio has already provided to Springfield, such as funding for education, vaccines, health screenings, and translation services. However, he acknowledged that more action is needed to address the challenges faced by the community.
To support local law enforcement with the increase in traffic and to provide more healthcare services, Governor DeWine announced that the Ohio State Highway Patrol will be dispatched to assist with traffic issues, and $2.5 million will be allocated over two years to enhance primary healthcare in the area.
Governor DeWine, who has a personal connection to Haiti through his family's charity work in the country, described the Haitian migrants in Ohio as hard-working individuals seeking better opportunities and safety for their families. The governor's actions aim to address the immediate needs of the community while calling for greater federal support in managing the ongoing migration situation.