Scanlon, Wexton Seek Reimbursement for Airports Supporting Operation Allies Welcome
Washington, D.C.,
February 11, 2022
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today joined Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (VA-10) in requesting a legislative fix to allow for Philadelphia International Airport and Dulles International Airport to be reimbursed for expenses incurred while supporting Operation Allies Welcome, which has successfully aided the evacuation of tens of thousands of Afghan refugees. Scanlon and Wexton, representatives of Philadelphia International and Dulles International, respectively, requested that language to allow for reimbursement be included in the next fiscal year 2022 Homeland Security appropriations measure. “With less than 24 hours’ notice of the first incoming flights, the airports quickly facilitated the necessary staffing, processes, and accommodations to provide a comfortable and safe environment for the evacuees. As critical partners in this humanitarian effort, the airports deserve parity with the other supporting organizations who are able to secure reimbursement for their efforts.” said the representatives in their letter. The historic Operation Allies Welcome program has been made possible by nonprofits, aid groups, and regular volunteers from across the region stepping up to ensure vulnerable Afghans are safely cared for as they arrive here in the U.S. However, unlike other organizations that have assisted with refugee assistance and resettlement, the airports are currently not eligible for reimbursement by any programs supported by the $13.85 billion Congress has provided for the operation. Philadelphia International and Dulles International have welcomed more than 300 flights and 80,000 evacuees since Operation Allies Welcome began in August 2021. To accommodate the influx of evacuees as well as facilitate necessary health and security measures, the airports established makeshift centers for medical screenings and vaccinations, increased staffing capacity, and enhanced public safety measures. The expenditures have totaled more than $2 million thus far. Find the full text of the letter here. ### |