Res. No. 365

Resolution calling on the United States Department of Health and Human Services to prioritize refugee settlement resources to New York City.

By Council Members Brewer, Hanif, Louis, Avilés, Joseph, Riley and De La Rosa

Whereas, Due to economic and political conditions in South and Central America, many thousands of people, including children and minor children, are fleeing their home countries and seeking asylum in the United States; and

Whereas, Over the last several months more than 20,000 asylum seekers, have arrived in New York City; and

Whereas, The Governor of Texas, as well as governors and mayors of cities and states on the United States southern border are sending asylum seekers to New York City; and

Whereas, a recent report contended that the federal DHS has been encouraging migrants to travel to New York City, and providing often incorrect information about where to receive services; and

Whereas, Reports indicate New York City may receive tens of thousands more asylum seekers in the coming months; and

Whereas, the United States Department of Health and Human Services Resettlement Program provides asylees with emergency cash and medical assistance, along with services such as English language classes, job readiness and employment that will help them successfully transition to life in the United States; and

Whereas, Asylum seekers only become eligible for services from the Office of Refugee Resettlement after they have been granted asylum in the United States; and

Whereas, Many of the asylum seekers arriving daily in New York City will ultimately be granted asylum in the United States and remain in New York City; and

Whereas, the Council supported the Mayor’s request that USCIS expedite processing times for their employment authorization applications; and

Whereas, New York City experiencing a surge in asylees that are or will be eligible for assistance from the Office of Refugee Resettlement and therefore there will be a surge in the need for the delivery of services that must be anticipated, planned for and provided in a timely manner; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls on the United States Department of Health and Human Services to prioritize refugee settlement resources to New York City.

LS# 10724

10/17/22

EHC