Summary
A federal spending bill proposes nearly $5.7 billion for refugee support services, causing disagreement in the Senate. Republican senators Rand Paul and Mike Lee oppose the funding, citing concerns over taxpayer spending. The bill includes support for health care and other services for refugees and asylees.
Key Facts
- The proposed spending bill allocates approximately $5.69 billion for refugee services.
- These services include medical care, employment support, child care, and cash assistance.
- The funding is part of a larger Labor, Health, and Human Services appropriations bill.
- Most of the funding would be available through 2028.
- Republican Senators Rand Paul and Mike Lee oppose the bill due to concerns about excessive spending.
- The Trump administration plans to limit refugee admissions to 7,500 in fiscal year 2026.
- The bill must be approved by Congress to prevent a partial government shutdown.
- Refugee programs have historically been part of U.S. humanitarian policy, adapting to global conflicts.
