121 C.M.R. 2.100 – Massachusetts Refugee Resettlement Program: Purpose and Authority

(1) The Refugee Act of 1980, Chapter 2 of Title IV of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 USC 1521 et seq.) established the federal Refugee Resettlement Program. 8 USC 1521 et seq. authorizes funds for the administration and implementation of social and educational services, employment training and placement, and cash and medical assistance for refugees. 8 USC 1521 et seq. is intended to promote the resettlement and economic self-sufficiency of refugees within the shortest time possible.
(2) An amendment to 8 USC 1521 et seq. authorized the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services to approve alternative programs "...under which refugees are provided interim support, medical services, support services, and case management, as needed, in a manner that encourages self-sufficiency, reduces welfare dependency, and fosters greater coordination among the resettlement agencies and service providers." Section 412(e)(7) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1522(e)(7). The Massachusetts Refugee Resettlement Program (MRRP) is such an alternative program.
(3) The primary purpose of MRRP is to assist refugees to achieve durable self-sufficiency. It seeks to accomplish this purpose by emphasizing coordination of services, early employment and post-employment services.