WASHINGTON — Democratic lawmakers Thursday called on the Federal Emergency Management Agency to send more planes and resources to Puerto Rico, saying it should not just be the wealthy who can leave the island.
Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., who is of Puerto Rican descent and visited the island last weekend, said people who don’t have the resources or means to take a private plane off the island need help.
“If you have money, you are getting your family off the island – I know that,” said Gutierrez.
“Should it be that only if you are wealthy, and can afford to hire a private jet, that you can put your family in a safe place? Or should all of those who want to relocate to a safe place be able to do it.”
Rep. Nydia Velazquez, D-N.Y., who is a native of Puerto Rico, thanked the Puerto Rican diaspora on the mainland for raising awareness about the plight of people on her home island.
Another Democratic lawmaker, Massachusetts Rep. Joe Crowley, said many Puerto Ricans are in life-threatening situations.
“Get these American citizens to the United States so they can be cared for, they can be comforted, and so their lives can be saved,” he said.
Gutierrez said the Puerto Rican community in Chicago will welcome those fleeing the island.
“Chicago wants to be for Puerto Rico what Houston was for New Orleans.”