Summary

Summary of Executive Order on Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program

Purpose

• The executive order addresses the challenges posed by increased migration to the United States over the past four years, including significant strains on local resources in cities and towns.
• It aims to suspend the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) until refugee entry aligns with U.S. interests.

Actions Taken

• Suspension of USRAP: The order suspends the admission of refugees effective January 27, 2025.
• Application Decisions: The Secretary of Homeland Security is directed to pause processing of refugee applications during the suspension.
• Case-by-Case Admissions: Exceptions allow for joint determinations by the Secretary of State and Secretary of Homeland Security to admit refugees on a case-by-case basis if it serves national interests and security.
• Local Involvement: The Secretary of Homeland Security will explore ways to increase state and local jurisdiction involvement in refugee placement processes.
• Reporting Requirement: The Secretary of Homeland Security must report to the President within 90 days on whether resuming the USRAP is in the national interest, with subsequent reports every 90 days.

Expected Impact

• The suspension is intended to prioritize public safety and resource management for American citizens while addressing the challenges of refugee assimilation.
• Local jurisdictions will have more say in refugee placement, potentially leading to better integration into communities.
• Future evaluations will determine if the program can resume and under what conditions.

Revocation

• The order revokes a previous executive order (14013) related to refugee resettlement and migration impacts.

This executive order signifies a shift in policy regarding refugee admissions, emphasizing national interest and local governance in the resettlement process.