Introduced

Passed House

Passed Senate

Became law

Adjourned sine die. The bill was pending when the session ended, so it did not pass.

Last action · February 6, 2026

To State Government (H)

Introduced January 30, 2026

House

Adjourned Sine Die

2026 Regular Session

HB531

AN ACT relating to coordination of refugee assistance.

Create a new section of KRS Chapter 194A to define "department"; require the Department for Community Based Services to administer funds received under the Refugee Act of 1980; implement a statewide strategy to ensure compliance with the Refugee Act; serve as the primary liaison between immigrant-serving organizations, refugee-serving organizations, and the federal government; advise the Governor, appropriate state agencies, cabinet members, and the General Assembly; submit an annual report to the Kentucky Office of Homeland…

Education, Elementary and Secondary Federal Laws and Regulations Immigration Public Assistance Public Health Reports Mandated State Agencies

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This bill would put the Department for Community Based Services in charge of managing federal refugee assistance funds in Kentucky and coordinating a statewide strategy to follow federal refugee law. The department would act as the main link between refugee-serving groups, immigrant-serving organizations, and the federal government, while also advising state leaders and submitting annual reports on its work. Who it may affect: refugees and immigrants in Kentucky, state agencies working with those populations, and nonprofit organizations that serve refugee and immigrant communities.

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