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The purpose of this GIS is to inform local districts that the eight-month limitation on the benefit eligibility of Afghan and Iraqi special immigrants was removed effective December 19, 2009 by the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-118). Section 8120(a) (Iraqi) and Section 8120(b) (Afghan) provide for Afghan and Iraqi special immigrants to receive benefits like any other refugee admitted under Section 207 of the INA. Refugees are specially qualified aliens and do not need five years in a qualifying status to receive federally-funded Family Assistance or Food Stamps, if otherwise eligible. Refugees not categorically eligible for Family Assistance can receive Safety Assistance (SNA), if otherwise eligible. Refugees can continue to receive cash assistance and food stamps for as long as they meet the programs� eligibility requirements. Federal guidance on this matter was provided to states on January 29, 2010.
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