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The purpose of this assignment is to succinctly set forth and justify a policy position in writing and verbally. You will create a one-page fact sheet that condenses the information in your policy memo from Part B and you will deliver oral testimony to help persuade legislators to vote for or against the bill you analyzed. Because this section has only 90 minutes of live session time, you will deliver your oral testimony through a video recording that you will post to the Testimony discussion board at least 24 hours prior to the start of your assigned live session. Live session discussion time will include instructor and student questions and feedback about your testimony.
When you save your assignment, the file name should be “First Name_Last Name_Assignment Name.”
Policy Memo
To: Legislator and legislative staff or agency staff
From: Bahar Nawabi
Date: May 12, 2024
Subject: Analysis of SB 85 – Immigration: Case Management and Social Services
Problem Description
The United States has recently experienced a significant influx of refugees, mainly from
Afghanistan and Ukraine, which represents the largest resettlement to America in decades.1
These refugees face numerous challenges as they work to integrate into their new communities
and build new lives. The current level of support provided to refugees needs to be increased to
meet their long-term needs and ensure their successful integration into American society.
Under the federal Reception and Placement Program (RPP), refugees receive various
services during their first three months after arrival in the United States. However, more than 2
this limited timeframe is needed for refugees to navigate complex systems, secure employment,
find housing, and establish a support network. Refugees require extended case management and
social services to address their unique needs and overcome the barriers they face.
The problem of insufficient support for refugees affects many individuals and families.
According to the author’s office, the United States is expected to admit 125,000 refugees
annually, with California receiving approximately 17,500 of these individuals based on historical
trends. These refugees come from diverse backgrounds and have experienced trauma, 3
displacement, and loss, necessitating comprehensive and culturally sensitive support services.
The lack of adequate support for refugees raises concerns about social justice and the
public interest. We are morally obligated to provide shelter and assistance to those fleeing
conflict and persecution. Failing to meet the long-term needs of refugees perpetuates their 4
marginalization and hinders their ability to contribute fully to their new communities. Supporting
refugees in their integration process is essential for promoting social cohesion and economic
prosperity and upholding our values as a welcoming nation.
California Legislative Information. (2023). SB-85 Immigration: case management and social services. 1
Retrieved from https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB85
California Department of Social Services. (2023). Refugee Programs Bureau. Retrieved from https:// 2
www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. (2021). Global Trends: Forced Displacement in 2020. 3
Retrieved from https://www.unhcr.org/flagship-reports/globaltrends/
California Department of Social Services. (2023). Refugee Programs Bureau. Retrieved from https:// 4
www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services
3
The challenges faced by refugees extend beyond their initial resettlement period. Many
refugees struggle with language barriers, cultural adjustment, and the trauma of their past
experiences. With adequate support, these challenges can help their ability to access healthcare,
education, and employment opportunities. Refugees’ long-term success and well-being depend
on comprehensive and sustained support beyond current federal programs’ limited timeframe.
Policy Analysis
SB 85, introduced by Senator Wiener and others, aims to address the problem of
insufficient support for refugees by allowing state funds, if appropriate, to be used in addition to
federal funds to extend social service programs to refugees and asylum seekers. The bill
recognizes the limitations of the current federal funding, which only provides 90 days of case
management. It seeks to extend these services to ensure refugees receive the support they need to
succeed.
The historical background of refugee support services in California involves the Office of
Refugee Resettlement (ORR) at the federal level and the Refugee Programs Bureau (RPB)
within the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) at the state level. ORR provides 5
initial benefits and services to refugees, while RPB coordinates programs and services to help
refugees successfully resettle and integrate into California. However, the existing programs have
limitations regarding the duration and scope of services provided.
SB 85 incorporates a couple of important aspects to improve refugee support services.
Firstly, it enables state funds to be expended distinctly without restrictions in cooperation with
the federal fund, providing an available budget. This mandate ensures that the federal
government provides refugees with financial support and others who plan for their long-term
needs.
SB 85 reflects the principles and ethos of social work that focus on not keeping silent
about injustices and discrimination issues, especially for the underprivileged. The bill is an
approach focused on refugees. It tries to guarantee the obtaining of the help that the refugees
require to overcome difficulties and attain self-sufficiency. SB 85, while providing case
management and social services, shows that this bill regards every person with high respect and
dignity and the creation of a healthy and egalitarian society.
Secondly, the bill extends the duration of refugee social services beyond the initial 90
days provided under RPP. Suppose a refugee completes the 90 days of RPP services and exhausts
the federal funds allocated. In that case, they become eligible for an additional 90 days of
services using state funds within the first 12 months of their arrival. This extension 6
acknowledges that the integration process requires ongoing support beyond the initial
resettlement period.
California Legislative Information. (2023). SB-85 Immigration: case management and social services. 5
Retrieved from https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB85
California Legislative Information. (2023). SB-85 Immigration: case management and social services. 6
Retrieved from https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB85
4
Thirdly, SB 85 introduces a needs assessment process for refugees who complete the 90-
day extension and seek additional services. The designated case manager assesses whether to
grant a further extension of services using state funds based on the refugee’s demonstrated
extreme need. This provision ensures that refugees with the most pressing needs receive the
support they require.
The bill specifies that the additional extension of services shall be a minimum of 90 days
and a maximum of 180 days, resulting in at most 270 days of state-funded support services and
the initial 90 days of federally-funded services. This means refugees can receive up to 360 days
of comprehensive support services to facilitate their integration.
SB 85 also expands the scope of refugee social services to include housing assistance,
education, and financial literacy, recognizing the multifaceted nature of refugee integration.
These services can be provided by qualified nonprofit organizations, community-based
organizations, eligible counties, or offices affiliated with agencies authorized under RPP.
Furthermore, the bill extends the provision of culturally appropriate and responsive case
management services for asylees and vulnerable noncitizens from 90 to 180 days within the first
year following the grant of asylum or eligibility determination. This extension acknowledges the 7
specific needs of asylees and vulnerable noncitizens and ensures they receive adequate support.
SB 85 is backed by the goals and values that social work extends to all human beings to
perceive the importance of social justice, human rights, and the humanity and dignity of every
person. The Bill aims to give refugees who are in the most desperate, helpless, and miserable
situation a complete package of support services. The two-pronged approach of SB 85, which
emphasizes case management and social services as well as integration, promotes the successful
settlement of refugees and their ability to achieve self-sufficiency and contribute positively to
their new communities.
Besides aiding with relationship building, implementing SB 85 can create a platform
where a wide variety of stakeholders can see eye to eye, including government officials,
nonprofits, and refugee communities. The fusion of those organizations will act as a strategy
since we can get similar expertise and resources from the organizations together, which will, in
turn, create a holistic and complete plan for integrating refugees. The collaboration model not
only strengthens the efficiency of service provision but also opens routes of participation to the
community and the sense of belonging and ownership from the side of refugees. Regarding
political feasibility, SB 85 has garnered support from diverse organizations, including refugee
advocacy groups, immigrant rights organizations, faith-based institutions, and social service
providers. This broad coalition of supporters demonstrates the recognition of the urgent need to
enhance refugee support services. However, the bill’s implementation is contingent upon
appropriating state funds, which may face competing priorities in the budget process.
California Legislative Information. (2023). SB-85 Immigration: case management and social services. 7
Retrieved from https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB85
5
The economic feasibility of SB 85 requires careful consideration. While extending
refugee support services may entail additional costs for the state, investing in the long-term
integration of refugees can yield significant social and economic benefits. Successfully
integrated refugees can contribute to the workforce, pay taxes, and stimulate local economies.
Moreover, providing adequate support services can prevent the escalation of social problems and
reduce reliance on public assistance in the long run.
Meanwhile, the financial implications of SB 85 cannot be addressed by more than
reconsidering the long-lasting costs of lower-level refugee support to society. The fact is,
refugees who leave their home countries without the essential services that the host countries
provide may suffer significantly from various problems, including mental and physical illnesses,
social welfare cases, and the rise of poverty and unemployment rate levels. This problem
drastically reduces the livelihood of the refugees, increases public expenses, and slows economic
growth.
Administratively, SB 85 relies on functional structures and organizations, such as
qualified nonprofit organizations, community-based organizations, and county agencies, to
provide refugee support services. This strategy optimizes the abilities and resources of these
organs but emphasizes cooperation and coordination. However, the act must be reinforced with
appropriate administrative machinery and supervision to allow the implementation and
monitoring of the extended services.
SB 85 will likely accomplish its goals of providing extended support to refugees and
promoting their successful integration. By offering up to 360 days of comprehensive case
management and social services, the bill addresses the long-term needs of refugees and gives
them a solid foundation to build their new lives. The needs assessment process ensures that
services are targeted to those with the most pressing requirements.
While SB 85 entails additional costs compared to the current level of refugee support, it
represents a strategic investment in the long-term well-being and integration of refugees. The
alternative of providing only limited support may result in more significant costs down the line
as refugees struggle to overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency. Moreover, successful 8
refugee integration’s social and economic benefits far outweigh the initial costs of extended
support services.
The well-incorporated refugees can be the source of California’s diverse and rich culture
and promote the diversity of the community and their mutual comprehension. The tendency of
distant people to become engaged in their new land will bring contributions and exchanges of
their unique perspectives, experiences, and traditions. Therefore, the rank of the new society will
be that of a rant welcoming diversity.
Advocacy & Recommendations
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). NASW Code of Ethics. Retrieved from https:// 8
www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English
6
As social workers committed to advancing social justice and the rights of vulnerable
populations, we strongly advocate for the passage and implementation of SB 85. Extending case
management and social services for refugees is critical to ensuring their successful integration
and promoting their well-being.
We recommend that the legislature prioritize appropriating state funds to support the
implementation of SB 85. Investing in refugee integration is a moral imperative and a strategic
decision that can yield long-term social and economic benefits for California. We can build
stronger, more inclusive communities by providing refugees with the tools and support they need
to thrive.
To ensure the effective implementation of SB 85, it is crucial to engage refugee
communities and organizations in the planning and delivering of extended support services.
Refugee-led organizations and community leaders possess valuable insights and cultural
knowledge that can inform culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches.9
Collaborating with these stakeholders can help build trust, enhance outreach efforts, and ensure
that the services provided under SB 85 are tailored to refugee communities’ specific needs and
priorities.
SBS.B. 85 should be implemented within the context of the evaluation and monitoring
provision to ensure that any unanticipated adverse effects do not ruin the results. Periodic checks
to determine the Output: The success of an extended refugee aid program can help the relevant
agencies change and improve practices, ensuring that the stream meets the changing needs of
refugees.
Also, SB 85 could be coupled with campaigns oriented towards making service providers
culturally competent and sensitive to our MPSs. Refugees, coming from diverse backgrounds
and being subjected to trauma and loss, are people in need of special care to eternalize the
moment and integrate them into a new environment. Help-givers are well-versed,
knowledgeable, and sensitive enough to give appropriate support to the refugee culture and their
dignity and experiences.
Moreover, Bill SB 85 should be one component of comprehensive efforts toward refugee
integration that include community engagement and public education endeavors. Promoting
mutual understanding, empathy, and assistance from society may lead to an inclusive atmosphere
where refugees will be treated well and can easily integrate into society.
On top of that, the passing of SB 85 should be followed by the adoption of policies
directed at addressing structural problems along with the ones aimed at creating an inclusive
society that involves sectors like housing, education, healthcare, and jobs. Refugees must deal
California Legislative Information. (2023). SB-85 Immigration: case management and social services. 9
Retrieved from https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB85
7
with different issues when looking for health services. A holistic approach that brings with it 10
structural transformation is essential in developing these people and improving their well-being.
Working with several government departments, nonprofits, and private sectors can lead to ease of
life and equality for the refugees in California.
Finally, SB 85 is a significant milestone towards refuting the imminent challenges of
refugees and getting them to integrate with the Californian communities. As social workers, we 11
strongly endorse this bill and look forward to its approval and implementation. The bill should be
accompanied by relevant recommendations to ensure its effectiveness and responsiveness to the
unique combination of experiences refugees will encounter. Through this, we can embody our 12
beliefs of social justice, human rights, and the birthright of every person, irrespective of income
status, to lead a life with dignity and respect that contributes to an inclusive and equitable
society.
In conclusion, SB 85 serves as the first step in catering to the future requirements of
refugees and securing their effective integration into the American community. Through the
expansion of case management and social services, the act addresses the complex nature of the
refugee experience and demonstrates social justice and human rights commitment. Through
collaborative initiatives, culturally responsive techniques, and sustained care, we can achieve an
environment where refugees can flourish, contribute to their societies, and maximize their
potential. As social workers, it is paramount for us to be the instrumental force that pushes for
policies and programs that assist the condition of the exploited and vulnerable migrants so the
entire populace can have a society where everyone has an equal share of the privileges in society.
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). NASW Code of Ethics. Retrieved from https:// 10
www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English
California Department of Social Services. (2023). Refugee Programs Bureau. Retrieved from https:// 11
www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services
California Department of Social Services. (2023). Refugee Programs Bureau. Retrieved from https:// 12
www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services
8
References
California Department of Social Services. (2023). Refugee Programs Bureau. Retrieved from
https://www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services
California Legislative Information. (2023). SB-85 Immigration: case management and social
services. Retrieved from https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?
bill_id=202320240SB85
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). NASW Code of Ethics. Retrieved from https://
www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English
Office of Refugee Resettlement. (2023). Refugee Resettlement Program. US Department of
Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved from
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr/programs/refugees
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. (2021). Global Trends: Forced Displacement
in 2020. Retrieved from https://www.unhcr.org/flagship-reports/globaltrends/