Nicholas Freitas, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, has expressed concerns over government policies that allow refugees on public assistance to travel abroad for vacations. He said that such practices undermine the credibility of refugee protections. The statement was made on X.
“If you are a “refugee” who presumably had to flee your country for fear of losing your life…and then turn right around and go back regularly to vacation while tax payers pick up the tab for your welfare…Maybe it’s safe for you to go home now,” said Nicholas J Freitas, Virginia State Representative for 62nd District.
As reported by the Star Tribune, Minneapolis has recently been engaged in debates and policy changes concerning public housing and refugee assistance. This follows cases where residents of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) traveled internationally while receiving benefits. These incidents have prompted city officials to consider new eligibility and reporting requirements in 2024.
According to Sahan Journal, an internal review by the MPHA found fewer than 100 cases in 2023 where refugees or public housing residents traveled internationally while receiving benefits. This is out of more than 26,000 total residents.
The Urban Institute reports that cities like Minneapolis, New York, and Seattle permit public housing residents—including refugees—to travel internationally under certain conditions. Although some cities have adopted stricter verification rules, there are no universal travel bans for those on housing assistance.
According to the Virginia General Assembly, Freitas is a Republican member representing the 62nd District. He is a former Army Green Beret and has consistently advocated for welfare reform and tougher immigration oversight in state policy debates.
