I thank the gentleman from Kentucky. As I understand it. the gentlemans amendment would provide the following: The amendment would add $23 million to refugee cash and medical assistance for fiscal 1982. This amount is within the authorization level. The funds would go to compensate 21 States for cash and medical benefits paid to refugees after April 1. 1982. when there was a change in the HHS regulations reducing the compensation period for certain benefits from 36 months to 18 months. Courts in 21 States required the States to provide these certain benefits even though the HHS regulations phased them out. These funds will cover essentially a 2month period until the 21 States can change their systems to reflect the new regulations and cover their State court concerns. The two States affected the most are California ($5 million) and Florida ($10 million). Even given these circumstances it should be noted that refugees. while losing some "special benefits." will still be eligible for all benefits in cash. medical services. and welfare assistance that any citizen of the United States would be eligible. We accept the amendment.
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