Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today after President Trump signed an executive order ending his administration’s family separation policy:
“While I hope today’s order puts an end to the barbaric separation of families at the border, I am concerned that these families will continue to face cruel and inhumane treatment at the hands of the Trump Administration.
“The Administration’s so-called solution of detaining families together is hardly the compassionate resolution the president claims it is. The government is required to hold children who cross the border in the ‘least restrictive setting possible,’ and prison-like detention centers simply do not meet these requirements.
“The Administration must now immediately reunite each of the more than 2,300 children who have already been separated from their parents.
“This crisis demonstrates the real need for Congressional oversight and I strongly encourage Chairman Walden to schedule a hearing as soon as possible so that we can ensure that these children are being protected and are receiving the care they need."
