New York is giving cash payments to migrants who wouldn't normally get state welfare. This change, made in May by Gov. Kathy Hochul's administration, lets non-citizens with pending asylum applications get benefits. Thousands are now eligible, reports say.
The state's Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance made the update. They sent info to social services but didn't share how many migrants get payments.
An OTDA spokesperson mentioned only a small part of the $4.3 billion for migrants has been used for these payments. They estimate 90% of migrants won't qualify under the new rules.
The change was to help a small percentage of migrants, following New York City's request. It's meant to comply with laws. Over 173,000 migrants have come to New York City since 2022. If 10% get payments, that's about 17,000 people in the city.
Migrants need to have applied for asylum and can use the money for necessities. Michael Kracker criticized the payments, saying they're unfair to struggling New Yorkers, including homeless veterans. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis sees it as attracting more migrants, burdening locals.
Councilman Robert Holden and Lora Ries from The Heritage Foundation also criticized the policy. They argue it prioritizes migrants over citizens, worsening illegal immigration.
Yet, OTDA clarifies that only legally present individuals can get benefits, stressing that illegal presence doesn't qualify one for assistance.
"Requesting faster work permits, and providing pre-paid credit cards and welfare benefits only encourages more illegal immigration," Ries said. "Then, the billions they have set aside will be quickly drained, they will need to spend more taxpayer money, and this cycle becomes a fiscal bottomless pit."
