Skip to main content

Joint Statement of Representatives Nydia M. Velázquez and Brendan Boyle on Somos Fall Conference

November 6, 2015

Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Brendan Boyle (D-PA) issued the following joint statement regarding the 2015 Fall Somos Conference, which they are attending in San Juan, Puerto Rico:

"Puerto Rico's economic and financial challenges did not occur overnight and they won't be solved immediately. However, it is important we work together to develop solutions in the short term that prevent the situation from deteriorating further, while outlining strategies that can put the island on a longer term path to prosperity.

"This conference brings together stakeholders, advocates and elected officials who all care deeply about Puerto Rico's future and provides an important opportunity for us to refine that vision, while speaking with one voice in calling for action from Washington. We cannot ignore the needs of the 3.5 million American citizens who reside in Puerto Rico. It is our hope that this gathering will serve as a compelling call for Congress to begin implementing the Administration's four-pillar plan to resolve this crisis."