Addressing the Asylum Seeker Crisis
Since asylum seekers first began arriving in New York, Governor Hochul has taken significant action to provide resources, support and humanitarian aid. In May, she issued an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency in New York, allowing the state to expedite resources to address this urgent crisis. Working with the legislature, Governor Hochul secured more than $1 billion in funding to support New York City's efforts to shelter asylum seekers. She has deployed more than 2,000 members of the New York National Guard to provide logistical and operational support at shelter sites throughout the state. And she has identified multiple state-owned facilities that can be used as Humanitarian Emergency Relief and Response Centers (HERRCs).
Governor Hochul has been clear: New York cannot do this alone. She has called for federal assistance and resources, and pushed the federal government for progress on work authorization so asylum seekers can leave shelters and come out of the shadows. The Governor is speaking regularly with the White House and continues to advocate for the people of New York.
18,000 Jobs Available to Asylum Seekers and Migrants
New York State has identified 400 employers who are willing to hire migrants and asylum seekers who have legal work status.
$38M for Asylum Seeker Legal Services
New York State has committed $38 Million in new funding to help provide legal services and case management for Asylum Seekers.
New Efforts Following Federal TPS Changes
After President Biden extended temporary protected status to some Venezuelans, New York is helping them access legal work.
State Investments and Actions
News & Resources
Letter to President Biden
Resources
“New York has always welcomed immigrants and new arrivals — and getting asylum seekers on track to work authorization will help them become self-sufficient and come out of the shadows. New York State has provided significant humanitarian aid for more than a year, and we’re committed to continuing to support the City in managing this ongoing crisis.”
Governor Hochul is Taking Action
Calling for Federal Action on Immigration
Governor Hochul leads a coalition of governors to urge federal funding and legislation.
State of Emergency Extended for Asylum Seeker Crisis
Executive Order 28.4 was extended to provide the State with greater flexibility to procure the resources necessary to support asylum seekers.
$20M Deployed to NYC for Casework Surge
Resources are being invested to connect more than 30,000 asylum seekers with services to exit city shelters and seek legal work status.
Ongoing Efforts to Shelter & Support Asylum Seekers
As part of $1B secured in the FY 2024 State Budget, $250M has been sent to the City to connect asylum seekers with critical social services.
Work Authorizations and Support for Asylum Seekers
Governor Hochul called on President Biden to take executive action and expedite work authorizations for asylum seekers.
Federal Resources Requested for the State
Governor Hochul issued a letter to President Biden, urging him to direct additional federal resources to the State of New York.