Governor Kathy Hochul deploys additional 150 National Guard members to assist asylum seekers

Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has announced the deployment of an additional 150 members of the New York National Guard to support the state's ongoing response to the asylum seeker and migrant crisis. This move is aimed at helping asylum seekers navigate the complex legal paperwork required to attain work authorization and transition out of taxpayer-funded shelters.

With a $50 million state investment in case management, the initiative seeks to ensure that asylum seekers and migrants can obtain work authorization more efficiently and integrate into local communities. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of providing assistance to individuals in navigating the paperwork necessary to establish themselves and pursue the American Dream.

The newly deployed National Guard members will join the existing 1,900 personnel currently offering logistical and operational support to asylum seekers across New York. They will be assigned as full-time case management professionals, working at various asylum seeker sites in New York City.

Governor Hochul's decision to engage the National Guard in case management roles reflects the growing demand for more effective and humane immigration policies. The state's efforts aim to expedite the asylum process and reduce the financial burden on state-run shelters.

By deploying additional National Guard members and investing in case management, New York hopes to set an example for other states on how to actively contribute to resolving the ongoing asylum seeker and migrant crisis.