WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congress today passed legislation that includes funding and additional benefits for Afghans resettling in the U.S.
The continuing resolution passed today includes $6.3 billion in supplemental funding for Afghan resettlement, as well as benefits for Afghan parolees who were admitted to the U.S. under humanitarian parole and are not technically deemed “refugees.”
Unlike people resettled officially as refugees, parolees are generally not eligible for government benefits like resettlement assistance and are often required to secure financial support through a nongovernmental sponsor prior to admission into the U.S. — unless Congress or the administration authorizes such benefits and appropriates additional funding.
“It’s great to see Congress prioritize helping Afghans resettle and integrate — something that has support across the political spectrum,” said Ali Noorani, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum. “This is a positive step that will have a real impact for newly arrived Afghans and the communities that are welcoming them. Helping Afghan evacuees thrive in their new homes is a win for all of us.”