By Guy Page
(Editor’s note: this version is the second update of the original version of this story posted at noon today. It contains corrections and clarifications.)
A bill approved by the Vermont Senate would enable non-citizens to receive Vermont Student Assistance (VSAC) grants for non-degree educational programs.
Tuesday the Senate gave preliminary approval to S.191, a bill that (as first introduced) would enable “refugees, asylees, asylum seekers, humanitarian parolees, or special immigrant visa holders” to access VSAC advancement grants. An amendment to the bill passed by the Senate appears to provide access regardless of immigration status – although language elsewhere limits recipients to non-citizens with legal status, such as Afghan refugees.
VDC is in discussion with bill sponsor Sen. Nader Hashim about the bill’s VSAC eligibility standards.
Senate leaders’ comments focus on preparing New Americans for higher-skilled jobs.
“This bill intends to support New Americans in affording and entering into non-degree educational programs after arriving in Vermont,” a spokesperson for Senate Pro Tem Philip Baruth (D-Chittenden) said Tuesday.
“There are many factors that go into making immigration successful,” said sponsor Hashim (D-Windham), whose family immigrated to the U.S.. “One of those factors is ensuring folks from different parts of the world feel welcome, safe and supported in Vermont’s community. I believe this bill will support New Americans in building their lives in Vermont.”
An advancement grant is intended to help Vermonters enhance job skills and improve employability. These grants can be used for non-degree educational purposes, or to help an individual start the process of getting their licensure in a specific field. Some examples of programming that would qualify for advancement grants include driver’s education, English language, CDL licensure, dental assistants, construction, culinary arts, and many other fields.
“New Americans are a valued part of Vermont communities and culture,” said Baruth. “It’s critical that we continue to do the work to dismantle barriers and expand opportunities for New Americans so they can thrive in this state. I’m thankful to Senator Hashim for his work on this important bill.”
Third and final reading of S.191 is scheduled for today in the Senate. If approved it will move on to the House.
Other legislation regarding illegal immigration includes:
H.723 states: “The Agency shall develop criteria for awards under this section, including priority eligibility for businesses owned by persons of color and indigenous peoples and businesses owned by new Americans. U.S. citizenship shall not be a requirement for eligibility under the program.” The bill is now in House Environment and Energy is unlikely to be voted out before Friday’s crossover deadline for policy-related bills.
S.52, introduced into the Senate Jan. 31 by sponsor Sen. Ruth Hardy (D-Addison), would “expand eligibility for health care coverage to all income-eligible individuals over 18 years of age who are ineligible for Medicaid and for premium tax credits on the Vermont Health Benefit Exchange due to their immigration status by July 1, 2024.”
Illegal immigrant children have been covered under a Medicaid-like health insurance program since July, 2022. The new legislation, if it becomes law, would provide coverage regardless of age or immigration status.
H.141, sponsored by Rep. Laura Sibilia, requires the Vermont Refugee Office find a third-party organization to conduct a $25,000 assessment (including funding sources) and inventory of all immigration support groups. The legislation does not explain why the assessment/inventory is necessary. The bill is now in the House General and Housing Committee and also is unlikely to meet this Friday’s crossover deadline.