HF 1902

as introduced - 87th Legislature (2011 - 2012) Posted on 04/18/2012 10:12am

A resolution
supporting the Somali-American community's ability to continue remittances to
the Horn of Africa.

WHEREAS, the state of Minnesota is the home of the largest concentration of
Somali-Americans in the United States; and

WHEREAS, the state recognizes the strong bond between its residents here and their
loved ones in the Horn of Africa; and

WHEREAS, millions of Somalis rely on remittances from the Diaspora as their only means
of income and support, and the lives of those who depend on remittances from their families in
the United States for food, housing, and health are in jeopardy because of the January closure of
nearly all the money-wiring service businesses in Minnesota; and

WHEREAS, this cessation of services is due to the decision of most banks to discontinue
money-wiring services to Somali firms, a vital lifeline that supports families in Somalia, where
250,000 people affected by famine are at immediate risk if they are not helped urgently; and

WHEREAS, Somalia lacks a functioning government and a banking system and is currently
under one of the most severe droughts in decades; and

WHEREAS, the vast majority of the remittances are small amounts of money sent to
family and friends; and

WHEREAS, the Somali-American community in Minnesota strongly denounces
Al-Shabaab and other terrorist groups; and

WHEREAS, Somali-American money transfer businesses are a source of pride and create
jobs both here in Minnesota and in the Horn of Africa; and

WHEREAS, Somali-American money transfer businesses are not accused of breaking
any city, state, or federal laws; and

WHEREAS, United States law that has been drawn up to help prevent radical organizations
from operating and recruiting against the country may well generate a further wave of
radicalization and ill will; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED by the Legislature of the State of Minnesota that it stands shoulder
to shoulder with our Somali-American colleagues, neighbors, and constituents in their desire to
support their loved ones in the Horn of Africa and across the globe.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature strongly urges all concerned parties to
find an amicable solution that facilitates the normal flow of remittances without compromising
the safety and security of the United States.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of State of the State of Minnesota is
directed to prepare copies of this memorial and transmit them to the banking community in
Minnesota, the President of the United States, the President and the Secretary of the United States
Senate, the Speaker and the Clerk of the United States House of Representatives, the chair of the
Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, the chair of the House Committee on
Financial Services, and Minnesota's Senators and Representatives in Congress.