Massachusetts is grappling with a significant financial burden due to its sanctuary state policies, with recent reports highlighting a $1.8 billion cost to support illegal migrants. These figures have sparked debates over the sustainability and impact of such policies on taxpayers.
Jessica Vaughan, Director of Policy Studies at the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS), pointed out the impending fiscal disaster. “These migrants represent a looming fiscal disaster for taxpayers in Massachusetts,” Vaughan told the Daily Mail. She emphasized that many migrants lack the necessary skills and education to avoid becoming a financial drain on public resources.
According to the CIS report, Massachusetts has already allocated over $1 billion to emergency shelter systems. The state has been overwhelmed by the influx, prompting Gov. Maura Healey (D) to cap the duration of stay in overflow shelters to five days and offer plane tickets to relocate willing migrants out of the state. These measures highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions to manage the situation.
In addition to shelter costs, the state incurs significant expenses on welfare programs for migrants. The report estimates that SNAP benefits for parolees alone cost $4.6 million. Moreover, incarcerating illegal alien criminals costs the state over $27 million annually.
Gov. Healey, alongside other blue state leaders, has appealed to the federal government for assistance. Despite the financial strain, Healey has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president, praising her commitment to the American people. This endorsement comes even as the state struggles with the fallout from open border policies.
The CIS report contrasts Massachusetts’ approach with states like Florida, which have implemented stricter immigration policies, including mandatory E-Verify. These policies have significantly reduced costs associated with illegal immigration, such as emergency medical assistance.
CIS recommends several measures to alleviate the financial burden on Massachusetts. These include restricting shelter systems to citizens, enforcing compliance with ICE detainers, and repealing laws that allow illegal aliens to obtain driver’s licenses. Such measures align with the public’s demand for stronger immigration enforcement and border security.
