Prairie State Wire

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) met with the Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro Pierluisi, to discuss the renewable energy investments underway on the island, critical workforce shortage issues, and the nutrition assistance limitations of the Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP).  They also discussed Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory and options for Puerto Ricans to determine their own political future.  Last Congress, Durbin was a cosponsor of the Puerto Rican Self-Determination Act, legislation that would enable Puerto Ricans to determine their own status and relationship with the United States.

“It is in our interest to ensure Puerto Rico has the resources it needs to thrive,” Durbin said.  “During our meeting, we discussed Puerto Rico’s political status, with more than three million residents who deserve a fair process to determine their future.  We also discussed ways to improve nutrition assistance to ensure Puerto Ricans are receiving the food and resources they need.  As I mentioned to Governor Pierluisi, I am fortunate to represent many Puerto Ricans in Chicago and I look forward to our future conversations.”

Photos of the meeting are available here.

Original source can be found here.