The House Appropriations - Human Resources Division convened on January 17, 2025, to discuss the budget for refugee services in North Dakota, highlighting a significant increase in refugee arrivals and the corresponding financial implications for state programs.

The meeting began with a presentation on the trend of increasing refugee arrivals in North Dakota. In fiscal year 2022, the state welcomed 219 refugee-eligible individuals. This number surged to 421 in 2023, marking a 92% increase, and further rose to 804 in 2024, nearly doubling the previous year. Projections for 2025 anticipate an additional 37% increase, bringing the total to approximately 1,100 arrivals. This upward trend necessitates an increase in the state’s budget to accommodate the growing needs of these populations.

The budget discussion emphasized that federal funding for refugee services is directly tied to the number of arrivals and the services required for successful integration. The state operates under a base budget system, submitting requests based on allowable costs outlined by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). Key budget items include salaries and benefits for staff, which have increased due to the need for additional personnel to manage expanding programs and contracts.

A notable budget increase of $10 million over the biennium was proposed, primarily driven by the costs associated with a new data management system. This system is essential for tracking and managing refugee services effectively. Additionally, there is a significant investment in professional development for service providers, with an increase of $110,000 allocated for training and a statewide conference aimed at enhancing the skills of those working directly with refugees.

The committee also discussed the complexities of funding sources for full-time employees (FTEs) within the refugee services budget. Several positions are federally funded, raising concerns about the sustainability of such funding in the future. Members expressed the need for clarity regarding which positions are federally funded versus state-funded to better understand the implications for state government growth.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the importance of community involvement in refugee integration, underscoring the role of local support in facilitating successful transitions for new arrivals. The discussions highlighted the ongoing commitment of the state to enhance services for refugees while navigating the challenges of funding and resource allocation.