Refugees can stay in Kentucky high schools after their 21st birthday under a bill that cleared the House Monday. Democratic state Representative Jody Richards says the proposal is intended to help refugees who have fled to the U.S. The divisive issue generated a lengthy floor debate with some critics, including Republican state Representative Ben Waide, questioning the wisdom of having people in their mid-20s sharing schools with teens. Democratic Representative Steve Riggs urged colleagues to pass the measure so refugees can finish high school and become contributing taxpayers.
