Congressman Dan Goldman Fights to Help Americans Stranded Abroad Return Home Safely
‘Safe Return Act’ Would Remove Financial Burdens for Americans Attempting to Return Home in Times of Crisis
Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) to introduce the Safe Return Act, in response to the ongoing crisis faced by United States citizens who currently remain in Israel and Gaza amid war. The Safe Return Act would ensure that Americans stuck abroad would no longer be required to repay the federal government for the assistance they receive to return home safely.
“The United States government has an obligation to protect every one of its citizens who remain abroad in times of crisis,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “When Americans find themselves in foreign countries as conflict erupts, there should be no financial barriers to getting them home. Requiring Americans in dangerous situations to sign a promissory note they may have trouble repaying does not align with our duty to keep our citizens safe. These are Americans who are simply trying to return home safely to their loved ones and it is our job to ensure that happens without unnecessary burdens.”
Under the current system, Americans who are abroad during sudden wars, natural disasters, civil unrest, or unforeseen financial circumstances are provided with loans to facilitate their return to the United States. Despite the crucial assistance these loans provide, they place an additional financial burden on those already grappling with the challenges of being stranded in a foreign country–especially those with lower incomes and senior citizens on fixed incomes.
The Safe Return Act would transform the current federal Repatriation Loan Program so that Americans who are trapped abroad would instead receive free grant assistance from the State Department to ensure their safe return home. Additionally, the Safe Return Act would extend these State Department life-saving financial resources and grants to lawful permanent residents of the U.S.
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