President Bush Signs SSI Extension for Elderly and Disabled Refugees Act

On 09/30/08, President Bush signed into law the "SSI Extension for Elderly and Disabled Refugees Act" (Public Law 110-328).

The bill will provide a two-year extension of benefits under the Supplemental Security Income Program for elderly and disabled refugees, asylum seekers, and victims of trafficking who are younger than 18 or older than 70.

Currently, eligible, low-income immigrants qualify for seven years' worth of benefits under the SSI program, with the understanding that they will apply for citizenship while covered under the program. This bill extends the period of eligibility to nine years.