{Kentucky}...Each year, hundreds of refugees come to Kentucky with the approval of the federal government to escape persecution in their home countries. Although they're here legally, up to 605 elderly and disabled refugees in the state stand to lose their Supplemental Security Income benefits if Congress doesn't act by September 30th. Though many people who aren't citizens are not eligible for SSI, the federal government makes an exception for refugees. But to keep SSI, the refugees must seek citizenship within seven years of their arrival in the United States. Advocates have asked for help from U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell and U.S. Representative Geoff Davis. Because of an inability to speak or write English and physical infirmities, some have been unable to acquire literacy in English or pass the U.S. citizenship test, although they are legal permanent residents.
