As a response to the surge of unaccompanied migrant children arriving at the United States’ southern border, the Biden administration is considering utilizing closed casino hotels as temporary housing facilities. This move comes as the administration faces mounting pressure to address the increasing number of minors seeking refuge in the country.
The proposal, which was first reported by the Times Daily, would repurpose vacant casino hotels in states such as Nevada and New Jersey to accommodate unaccompanied children who have been apprehended at the border. These facilities would be operated by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and would provide temporary shelter, food, and medical care to the children while they await placement with sponsors or family members in the US.
The decision to use closed casino hotels as housing facilities for unaccompanied migrant children has sparked a debate among lawmakers and advocates. Some argue that these facilities offer a more humane and comfortable setting for the children, as they are equipped with amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and entertainment options. Additionally, the use of these facilities could alleviate overcrowding at existing shelter sites and provide a more suitable environment for the children.
However, others have expressed concern about the potential challenges of repurposing casino hotels for this purpose. Critics argue that these facilities may not be equipped to provide the necessary level of care and support for vulnerable children, especially those who have experienced trauma and hardship on their journey to the US. Additionally, questions have been raised about the cost and logistics of converting these sites into temporary housing facilities.
Despite these concerns, the Biden administration is moving forward with the plan to utilize closed casino hotels as a temporary solution to the influx of unaccompanied migrant children. The administration has pledged to provide adequate resources and support to ensure the safety and well-being of the children while they are in US custody.
In a statement, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized the importance of providing a safe and secure environment for unaccompanied children, stating that “every child deserves to be cared for and protected, regardless of their immigration status.” The administration is working closely with state and local officials to identify suitable sites for the temporary housing of these children and is committed to finding long-term solutions to address the root causes of migration from Central America.
As the debate over the use of closed casino hotels as housing facilities for unaccompanied migrant children continues, the Biden administration remains focused on ensuring the well-being of these vulnerable individuals. With the number of arrivals at the southern border expected to continue rising in the coming months, the administration is faced with the challenge of balancing humanitarian concerns with practical solutions to address the growing crisis.
