Comment Submitted by Anonymous
AnonymousOpposeIndividual
Summary: A group of Ukrainian refugees under the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program opposes the proposed changes, arguing that they would reduce work authorization opportunities. They state that these changes could force self-sufficient individuals to rely on public benefits and increase their personal uncertainty regarding their legal status in the U.S.
We are Ukrainians who came to the United States legally through the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program, fleeing the war in Ukraine. We are deeply grateful for the safety and peace that we have found here, especially for our children.
Almost everyone in our family is working. We want to be productive members of American society and to give back to the United States. We do not want to become a burden in any way.
The future changes that are being considered would reduce our chances of obtaining or renewing work authorization. As a result, many people who are currently self-sufficient could be forced into situations where they would need government assistance, such as welfare, SNAP (food stamps), and other public benefits.
Ukrainians are already living with great uncertainty about the extension of their lawful stay in the United States. Many have been waiting for years for immigration decisions. It is an extremely difficult situation, and for many of us, there is simply nowhere safe to return.