HB2368 directs the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to support refugees and immigrants in Washington by managing the Refugee Resettlement Plan, offering services such as cash, medical assistance, employment help, and English instruction. It also enables DSHS to assist migrants ineligible for federal programs through community organization contracts and “equitable” funding.
The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB2368 on February 13, 2024 by a vote of 61 to 35. We have assigned pluses to the nays because individuals who enter the United States illegally—by definition a criminal act—should not be granted sanctuary or residency in Washington, nor should they be eligible for state benefits funded by taxpayers. Furthermore, medical assistance and social welfare are not legitimate government functions. These expenditures unjustly use taxpayer money, violating the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment.