The Economic Development and Workforce Services Interim Committee convened recently, though it was noted that a quorum was not met due to insufficient representatives. The meeting proceeded with a presentation from the Refugee Services Office, led by Deputy Director Kevin Bird and Director Mario Khiya, focusing on the state of refugee resettlement in Utah.

Khiya provided an overview of the global refugee crisis, highlighting that over 32 million individuals are currently classified as refugees, with less than 0.5% eligible for resettlement in developed countries like the United States. The presentation detailed the rigorous vetting process refugees undergo before being admitted, which can take two to three years and involves 26 specific security screening steps.

In Utah, the Refugee Services Office aims to facilitate the self-sufficiency and integration of refugees into the community. Annually, the state sees approximately 1,700 to 1,800 refugees, primarily from Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The office collaborates with three nonprofit resettlement agencies to provide essential services during the initial resettlement phase, which includes housing, food, and case management.

The committee learned about the office's successful outcomes in 2023, including over 1,000 job placements with an average wage of $18.29. The office also reported a 97% positive closure rate for its refugee cash assistance program, indicating that most participants exited the program due to employment or increased earnings.

Utah's refugee resettlement program is recognized nationally for its innovative practices and strong community partnerships. Notable initiatives include the Humanitarian Center Project, which combines work and English language training, and a tech certification program led by volunteers from local tech companies. These efforts underscore Utah's commitment to supporting refugees and fostering community involvement in their integration process.