In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the challenges faced by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) regarding the care of unaccompanied children (UAC) and the implications of state policies, particularly in Florida. The meeting highlighted the ongoing struggle to place children in licensed care facilities, as Florida has enacted measures that hinder the licensing of caregivers for UAC, raising concerns about child welfare.

Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) addressed the issue of approximately 320,000 children unaccounted for under the current administration, clarifying that these children are not \"lost\" but rather placed with vetted sponsors. The Secretary emphasized that follow-up efforts, including safety and well-being calls, are made to check on these children, although responses are not guaranteed. Reasons for lack of communication from sponsors include everyday activities such as school or medical appointments.

The Secretary also responded to criticisms regarding the handling of UAC, asserting that the ORR adheres to best practices in child welfare and that resources are a limiting factor in more aggressive follow-up measures. The conversation shifted to legislative proposals, with the Secretary expressing concerns that certain immigration bills could harm unaccompanied minors by subjecting them to prolonged detention and inadequate legal representation.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of managing the welfare of unaccompanied children amid evolving state policies and legislative challenges, highlighting the need for comprehensive immigration reform to better protect vulnerable populations.