Christopher Shays: “This bill takes a very meaningful step. It may be small, but it is meaningful to ensure those who are most vulnerable in…”

“This bill takes a very meaningful step. It may be small, but it is meaningful to ensure those who are most vulnerable in emergency situations, women and children, are not exploited. In my work as chairman on the Subcommittee on National Security, Emerging Threats and International Relations, I have had the opportunity to witness the crucial and awe-inspiring work of humanitarian aid organizations around the world. I am, frankly, in awe of organizations like AmeriCares, Save the Children, MercyCorps and so many others. They do extraordinary work. As an original cosponsor of this legislation, I can clearly state we have no intention of hindering, in any way, the crucial work these and other humanitarian organizations do. In fact, most of the organizations working with the USAID already have adopted policies that protect their beneficiaries.”