Issue Position: Puerto Rico

Issue Position

Richie is proud to represent Massachusetts' largest Puerto Rican population. Throughout his career, he has fought for the rights of both the Puerto Rican population in Western and Central Massachusetts and the island itself.

That's why he has fought for fairer tax treatment for the island. It's why he voted to provide opportunities for self-determination of statehood. And it's why, in 2018, when the island was devastated by Hurricane Maria, Congressman Neal was quick to lend a hand.

He called on the Trump administration to ensure Puerto Rico's infrastructure was secured after a report showed true devastation to the island.

He worked with other Massachusetts colleagues on Capitol Hill to secure the necessary federal response to help Puerto Ricans impacted by the hurricane.

He traveled to Puerto Rico with Sen. Elizabeth Warren to better understand the emergency efforts and the needs of the people following Hurricane Maria.

He partnered with Rep. Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR) to introduce legislation that would set aside funds from the Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) program to specifically be invested in Puerto Rico and other U.S. Territories.

Richie also believes that we need to recognize, celebrate and support the heritage and culture of Puerto Rico, and of the entire American Latinx community - and he has backed that belief up with action.

He has recognized the historic service of the 65th Infantry Borinqueneers during the Korean War, and honoring the people of Puerto Rico who continue to serve and volunteer for service in the Armed Forces.

He co-sponsored legislation to recognize Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating Latinx heritage in the economy, culture, and identity of the United States.

He supports the building of the National Museum of the American Latino.

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