Hinds Today

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) has requested information from a Biden administration official regarding reports that the federal government may issue a contract to house migrants at a closed casino hotel in Tunica County, Mississippi.

In a letter addressed to an official from the U.S. Health and Human Services Department (HHS) who administers the Office of Refugee Resettlement, Hyde-Smith expressed concerns about the potential economic impact on local communities and the costs state and local governments might incur.

“Constituents contacting me are deeply troubled about the potential negative economic impact that such a resettlement project would have on the local communities and the costs that state and local government agencies would have to bear to accommodate such a population. It is unclear at this point if Tunica, Mississippi, is able, willing, and prepared to manage such an influx,” Hyde-Smith wrote.

She also mentioned ongoing proposals for facilities designated as Intensive Care Facilities (ICF), with deadlines set for summer 2024. “I understand that proposals continue to be submitted for consideration to become designated as an ICF with a deadline of summer 2024. I would like to request a call with you to further discuss the proposal process and express my concerns about such a facility being located in Mississippi,” she added.

Hyde-Smith serves on Senate Appropriations Committee subcommittees overseeing HHS and DHS matters.