Federal Register #2026-14095

Policy Update: Extension of Refugee Cash and Medical Assistance Eligibility Period

This notice from the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), under the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, announces a policy change regarding refugee assistance programs. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) - Administration for Children and Families (ACF) - Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) - Policy Change Details: - The eligibility period for Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) and Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) is increased from 4 months to 8 months - Applies to refugees and other ORR-eligible populations - States are required to implement the expanded eligibility period - States may provide additional or retroactive assistance to eligible individuals - No procurement of products or services is involved - No OEMs, vendors, or product/service requirements are specified, as this is a regulatory and policy update, not a solicitation or contract opportunity - The change is based on available appropriations, arrival trends, and program needs, aiming to support effective resettlement and economic self-sufficiency

Description

The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) announces an increase in the eligibility period for Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) and Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) from 4 months to 8 months. This change aims to support the effective resettlement of refugees and other ORR-eligible populations and assist them in achieving economic self-sufficiency, consistent with the Refugee Act of 1980. The change is effective upon publication, and states have up to 30 days to implement necessary system or operational changes. The eligibility period adjustment considers funding levels, arrival trends, and program needs to maintain efficient use of federal resources.

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