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Migration and impact of FAS citizens
As assistant secretary, I began an initiative that included participation of Freely Associated States presidents, Governor Calvo, Hawaii Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz (now U.S. senator), congresswoman Bordallo, congressman Kilili Sablan, and several federal agencies to discuss the migration and impact of FAS citizens to U.S. jurisdictions.
The initiative, named Pacific Island Leaders Addressing Compact Impact (PILACI), brought together such leaders to discuss any multitude of ways to mitigate the negative effects being associated with FAS migration. Many ideas were discussed and there were efforts underway to determine feasibility based on existing policy or administrative action.
After my departure, Ms. Bordallo should have followed up with her request with my successor in the same way she sought assurances of my commitment to fund political status education funding for Guam.
It has been four years since my departure from office and I’m unaware that she has raised this issue with my successor, or during the annual meeting of the Interagency Group on Insular Affairs, or has sought from my successor continuing meetings of Pacific Island Leaders.”
Anthony “Tony” M. Babauta
Via email
