Bill > A02374

This bill directs the New York State Department of Social Services to establish a comprehensive refugee resettlement program administered by the Bureau of Refugee Services. The program's core mission is to support refugees through multiple avenues, including helping them achieve economic and social self-sufficiency, assisting victims of human trafficking, and ensuring proper foster care for unaccompanied refugee minors. The bill outlines an extensive range of support services that the program will partner with public and private entities to provide, such as civic engagement, mentoring, comprehensive case management, basic needs assistance, employment and training services, English language instruction, healthcare access, medical screenings, educational transition support, and social services for different age groups. The bill provides context by highlighting the global refugee crisis, noting that as of 2022, there were 108.4 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, with only less than 1 percent ever being resettled in a safe third country. The legislation emphasizes New York State's historical commitment to refugee resettlement, referencing the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) and the state's position as the third-highest refugee resettlement state in the country. The program can be funded by federal, state, or local governments and is designed to be flexible in addressing emerging refugee needs.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2374