Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program

What it means

Suspends the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) effective January 27, 2025. The order cites concerns about communities being overwhelmed by migration and limited resources for proper assimilation of refugees.

Expected impact

• Immediate halt to most refugee admissions, with exceptions allowed on a case-by-case basis when deemed in the national interest
• Potential shift in refugee resettlement authority to give states and local jurisdictions more control over placement decisions
• Likely reduction in overall refugee numbers entering the U.S. until the program is reviewed and possibly restructured
• Legal challenges from immigration advocacy groups concerning humanitarian obligations
• Relief for communities currently experiencing resource constraints from recent migration influxes