The state’s shelter system hit a self-imposed limit of 7,500 families last week.
asylum seekers
Finland to close 4 border crossings, accusing Russia of organizing flow of migrants
Finnish President Sauli Niinistö on Wednesday linked Russia’s actions to Finland’s NATO membership in April after decades of military non-alignment, something that infuriated Moscow.
Maine asks for federal waiver to let asylum seekers go to work
Although there is no provision for such waivers, the request comes as advocates lobby Congress to support a bill sponsored by Rep. Chellie Pingree to shorten the waiting time for work permits.
Move-in date for Brunswick asylum-seekers delayed by fire
A fire at one of the buildings being constructed for 60 asylum-seeking families at Brunswick Landing delayed the construction schedule.
National campaign launches to promote Pingree’s asylum seeker work bill
The campaign is rallying support for the bipartisan House Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act, which would reduce wait times for work permits from at least 180 days to just 30 days.
Massachusetts governor warns state’s shelter system is nearing capacity
As a ‘right-to-shelter’ state, Massachusetts is legally required to provide shelter to eligible families.
Commentary: Businesses need reform of asylum seeker work authorization
Lots of red tape stands between new Mainers and the labor force. Fortunately, a common-sense solution is on the table.
Our View: To invest in immigrant pupils is to invest in the future
A big effort by Maine schools to accommodate English language learners will have a big return for their communities.
Local schools make last-minute push to prepare for new students from asylum-seeking families
In Freeport and Sanford, schools have hired English instructors and made other adjustments needed to welcome dozens of new students.
Freeport hotel home to 40 asylum-seeking families after Portland closes arena shelter
The City of Portland negotiated a yearlong contract with Freeport’s Casco Bay Inn to house 40 asylum-seeking families, who will choose to enroll their children in either Portland or Freeport school systems.