S. 2655: Community-based Refugee Reception Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Community-based Refugee Reception Act of 2025, aims to establish a new program to support the resettlement of refugees in the United States through community involvement. The key components of the bill are outlined below:

Purpose of the Bill

The main goal is to create a community-based refugee reception program that complements existing resettlement services. It seeks to enhance local community capacity to assist in the resettlement of refugees and promote self-sufficiency among them. The bill recognizes the importance of local engagement in refugee support and aims to facilitate meaningful connections between refugees and U.S. citizens.

Program Structure

The Secretary of State will be responsible for establishing this program within 90 days of the bill's enactment. The program will rely on:

• Community sponsorship: Local groups will help refugees with their initial needs.
• Private sponsorship: Individuals or organizations may sponsor refugees as well.
• Partnerships: Collaboration between community groups and established resettlement agencies.

Initial Services Provided

The reception and placement services provided under this program will include:

• Provision of housing, furnishings, clothing, and food.
• Assistance in accessing medical, employment, educational, and social services.
• Conducting cultural and social orientation for refugees.

Eligibility for Refugees and Community Sponsors

To participate in the program, refugees must be referred by eligible community sponsorship groups. These groups must meet certain criteria, including:

• Having at least three U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents within the area where they plan to resettle the refugee.
• Raising sufficient funds to cover the associated expenses for the refugee's initial period of sponsorship.
• Completing all required pre-arrival training as mandated by the Secretary.

Responsibilities of Community Sponsorship Groups

Community sponsorship groups will be tasked with providing initial reception and placement services akin to those offered by traditional resettlement agencies for a minimum of 90 days after the arrival of the refugee. They will also be responsible for ensuring that refugees are informed of their rights and have access to necessary benefits.

Public-Private Partnerships

The bill allows the Secretary to establish grants and contracts with organizations to support community sponsorship groups. These organizations will assist with training and services and will focus on ensuring a diverse range of contributors to the program.

State and Local Government Communication

The bill mandates that the Secretary provide reports to state and local governments regarding the number of refugees to be resettled and the applications received from community sponsorship groups. This aims to enhance transparency and coordination with local authorities.

Fiscal Provisions

The bill authorizes necessary appropriations for the implementation of the community-based refugee reception program for fiscal year 2026 and beyond.

Relevant Companies

None found