Since 1980, USRAP has assisted over 3 million refugees in completing security vetting, passing medical exams, safely boarding flights, receiving immediate transition aid, and reuniting with family upon arriving in the United States. Despite rhetoric suggesting that migrants increase crime rates, research shows no consistent link between violent crime and immigration. Likewise, the xenophobic claims that migrants overpopulate cities and strain local economies are unfounded, as ongoing research demonstrates that cities with immigrant populations can be vital for rebuilding and revitalizing economic growth and civil society. Increased restrictions could limit access to health services, worsen health outcomes, and intensify existing health disparities faced by refugees due to trauma, language barriers, and lack of insurance. Temporarily halting USRAP and related support programs would cause significant harm to both migrants in the process of immigrating and those already residing in the U.S.
A directive issued by the President that manages operations of the federal government. Executive orders have the force of law but must align with existing statutes and constitutional authority.
Who It Impacts: Federal agencies and employees, directing them on how to implement laws or carry out government functions. Executive orders can also influence businesses and individuals when they relate to issues like immigration, trade, or labor policies.
Who Is Not Impacted: Private citizens and businesses do not have to directly follow an executive order unless it leads to regulations or policies that apply to them. For example, an executive order directing federal agencies to increase renewable energy use does not mandate action from private companies, but it may influence policy shifts that eventually affect them.
Summary
Executive Order (EO) 14163 permanently suspends the U.S. Refugee Assistance Program (USRAP). It grants the President broad authority to restart or halt refugee admissions and processing, leaving current refugees in the US without assistance and those outside without guidance on the future state of the program.
Impact Analysis
Legal Challenges
Pacito v. Trump (W.D. Wash)
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops v. Department of State et al. (D.D.C.)
Take Institutional Action
Build or reinforce partnerships with local refugee resettlement agencies and immigrant-serving organizations to coordinate care and support.
Advocate at the local and state levels for policies that protect health coverage, safety-net benefits, and access to care for immigrant populations.
Establish emergency funds or financial assistance programs to address gaps in healthcare, medications, and essential needs for affected families.
Train healthcare providers and staff on the social determinants of health affecting immigrant communities, including housing insecurity, food access, behavioral health issues, and legal vulnerabilities.
