COLUMBUS, Ohio – In response to a significant influx of temporary Haitian migrants, the governor of Ohio has announced the deployment of law enforcement resources and millions in healthcare support to the city of Springfield. This initiative comes as Springfield garners national attention, grappling with the arrival of approximately 15,000 Haitians since 2020.
Governor Mike DeWine emphasized on Tuesday that while he supports the Temporary Protected Status program, more substantial federal assistance is crucial for communities affected by this situation. His remarks coincided with a presidential debate, underscoring the ongoing national conversation about immigration policy.
Further highlighting the crisis, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is exploring legal options, including a potential lawsuit, to challenge the unregulated influx of migrants into Ohio communities.
The surge of Haitian migrants into Springfield has been driven by escalating violence and unrest in their homeland, which has left many families seeking refuge in Ohio. DeWine noted that Ohio has already implemented measures to enhance education and training, increase health services, and improve translation assistance in schools.
“These dramatic surges impact every citizen in the community,” DeWine declared, pointing out that the strain affects access to healthcare and education due to overcrowded facilities. He indicated that similar trends are also emerging in Findlay and Lima.
To address local traffic concerns linked to the growing number of unfamiliar drivers on Ohio roads, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will assist local law enforcement beginning Wednesday. Moreover, DeWine is allocating $2.5 million over the next two years to bolster primary healthcare services through county health departments and private healthcare providers.
The governor shared personal ties to Haiti through a charity established in honor of his late daughter, emphasizing that the Haitian migrants are predominantly hardworking individuals striving for better opportunities and safety for their families.
