South Miami-Dade News

Reps. Carlos Gimenez and Frederica Wilson have jointly introduced the bipartisan Justifiable Use of Money for Peace (JUMP) Act, a bill that aims to waive the repayment requirements for American citizens and permanent residents who were evacuated from Israel. The bill specifically addresses the urgent needs of individuals who were caught in the crossfire of Hamas' recent terrorist attack in Israel.

Under the current U.S. State Department's regulations, American citizens and permanent residents who are evacuated by the U.S. government are required to repay the transportation costs. However, in light of the traumatic experiences faced by the victims of the Hamas attack, the JUMP Act seeks to alleviate their financial burden and allow them to return home without having to repay the evacuation services.

Congressman Carlos Gimenez expressed his concern over the repayment requirement, stating, "A victim of Hamas terrorism in the midst of an evacuation should not be burdened by cumbersome paperwork or be forced to repay their transportation." He further emphasized the need to prioritize the well-being of the victims and allow them to mourn without the added cost of repayment.

Similarly, Rep. Frederica Wilson highlighted the importance of compassion in times of crisis. She stated, "The JUMP Act is a beacon of compassion, recognizing the unimaginable pain and trauma victims face. By waiving the U.S. State Department's repayment requirement, we're offering solace to those grieving, allowing them to begin the healing process without the added weight of repayments."

The JUMP Act is seen as a call for empathy and support for the individuals who have experienced the horrors inflicted by Hamas terrorists. It aims to provide them with the necessary relief to begin the healing process and move forward without the financial strain of repayment.

For more information and to read the full bill text of the JUMP Act, interested individuals can click [here](link to bill text).

Congressman Carlos Gimenez, who represents Miami-Dade County and the Florida Keys, is the only Cuban-born member of the 118th Congress. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the Homeland Security Committee, and the Select Committee on China.

This bill marks an important step towards supporting the victims of the Hamas attack and demonstrating the United States' commitment to the well-being of its citizens and residents in times of crisis.

To learn more, click on this link: https://gimenez.house.gov/2023/11/reps-carlos-gimenez-and-frederica-wilson-introduce-jump-act-to-waive-repayment-requirements-for-americans-evacuated-from-israel