Governor Tom Wolf and U.S. Senator Bob Casey demanded information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding the migrant children separated from their parents at the southern border and were transferred in Pennsylvania.

In a letter to HHS Sec Alex Azar, Gov. Wolf and Sen. Casey expressed their concern about the safety and well-being of the unaccompanied migrant children. They emphasized that these children are vulnerable.  The “trauma of being separated from their parents will have short and long-term adverse impact on their mental health and well-being.”

Gov. Wolf and Sen. Casey strongly oppose family separation

In addition, Gov. Wolf and Sen. Casey reiterated their opposition to the Trump administration’s policy of detaining families seeking asylum. They specifically condemned the practice of separating children from their parents.

Furthermore, they emphasized that Pennsylvania is legally responsible for supervising Child Residential and Day Treatment Facilities. They also noted that the DHS has contracts with local governments to administer its Unaccompanied Refugee Minors’ Program in the state.

“Knowing that thousands of children have been separated from their parents by the Administration in just the last few months, we would like to ensure that any unaccompanied minor residing in Pennsylvania is receiving the care required under state law,” wrote Gov. Wolf and Sen. Casey.

Moreover, in their letter. Gov. Wolf and Sen Casey asked specific questions to Sec. Azar. They asked how many unaccompanied migrant children are now in the state and where are they residing. They inquired about the HHS’ vetting and oversight of the facilities taking care of the migrant children.

Gov. Wolf and Sen. Casey also asked about the location of the parents of these children and the timeline for their reunification.

They requested details regarding the safety and well-being of these unaccompanied migrant children.

“We ask that you provide information about the scope of this issue in Pennsylvania so that we can carry out our responsibilities as elected officials. We look forward to your response,” said Gov. Wolf and Bob Casey to Sec. Azar.