The bicameral Destination Reception Assistance Act (S. 4861, H.R.9217) introduced by Senator Edward J. Markey (Mass.) and Representatives Grace Meng (NY-06), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), and Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) establishes the Destination Reception Services Program to provide critical funding to communities offering essential medium-term services to new arrivals as they transition to self-sufficiency. The Destination Reception Assistance Act (DRAA) would complement the immediate and short-term services of the Shelter and Services Program.
Communities across the country lack sufficient infrastructure and resources to humanely welcome new arrivals. This act addresses that challenge by funding existing and effective local welcoming efforts. Services covered by the DRAA are not handouts but investments– they welcome new arrivals and put them on the path to fill labor shortages, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy and help fund our public programs.
The United States can effectively and justly manage migration, it just takes prioritizing resources, coordination, and political will. The DRAA is a critical step to establishing a humane and sustainable infrastructure to welcome asylum seekers and migrants, without wrongly framing migration as a matter of enforcement.
Congress cannot remain stalled by unproductive proposals and entrenched negotiations. It’s time for lawmakers to shift their approach to successful and economically fruitful solutions that provide support and trauma-informed care for those seeking refuge and navigating our complex immigration system.
This year, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees anticipates more than 130 million people will experience forcible displacement or statelessness, a tragedy exacerbated by renewed violent conflict and atrocities, persecution, human rights violations, and climate and environmental disasters. The Americas are also experiencing unprecedented migration. As Congress navigates record-breaking human suffering, the conversation needs to center on effective solutions that both prevent forced migration and respond to displacement and resettlement needs. The United States can lead the world with conviction on proven humane migration solutions that uphold national prosperity and community interests.
Washington, DC, July 30, 2024: City, county, and NGO leaders announced their support for the Destination Reception Assistance Act introduced today by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Representatives Grace Meng (NY-06), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13).
Legislation is endorsed by city and county leaders across the country.
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