During a recent hearing, Rep. Darrell Issa criticized the State Department for allegedly using taxpayer dollars to fund counseling for migrants on how to navigate the asylum process to enter the United States. Issa accused the department of providing false information regarding its funding of legal representation and counseling related to immigration proceedings.
Issa presented slides from the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) that reportedly advised migrants on seeking asylum in the U.S. The State Department's assistant secretary for Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) confirmed awareness of the slides but stated they were not directly funded by PRM.
Despite the denial of direct funding, Issa argued that the State Department's support of HIAS indirectly facilitated the dissemination of information encouraging migrants to enter the U.S. rather than seeking asylum in Mexico.
HIAS, a longstanding partner of the U.S. government, stated its compliance with U.S. law and grant agreements. The State Department spokesperson denied that U.S. taxpayer funds were used to produce the slides and emphasized the department's support for programs aiding displaced individuals in the Western Hemisphere.
Issa expressed intent to continue investigating the matter in the next Congress, emphasizing the importance of accountability and uncovering the truth.
The controversy underscores ongoing concerns about the use of taxpayer funds in immigration-related initiatives and the need for transparency and oversight in government spending.
