By setting a high minimum goal for refugee admissions, SB3714 aims to reinforce the U.S. commitment to providing refuge to individuals displaced by conflict, persecution, or disaster. This legislative change is expected to enhance the transparency and predictability of U.S. refugee admissions, allowing government agencies to better plan and manage the resettlement process. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the President to determine regional allocations for refugees based on the needs identified by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, thereby aligning the U.S. policies with global resettlement strategies.
Summary
SB3714, also known as the Guaranteed Refugee Admission Ceiling Enhancement Act (GRACE Act), seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act by establishing a minimum annual goal for refugee admissions set by the President. This bill aims to ensure that the United States actively participates in humanitarian efforts by admitting no fewer than 125,000 refugees each fiscal year, unless the President makes a specific determination. In cases where such a determination is not made, the bill mandates that the threshold of 125,000 remains in effect automatically for the fiscal year.
Contention
One of the notable points of contention surrounding SB3714 is the potential pushback from certain political factions that may argue about the implications of admitting larger numbers of refugees, citing concerns over resource allocation and domestic security. Critics may also express apprehension regarding the impacts on local communities, which often play crucial roles in the integration of refugees. The establishment of a defined target annually raises discussions about balancing humanitarian needs with domestic considerations, emphasizing the ongoing debate on immigration policies within the U.S.
Additional_points
The bill stipulates that if the President does not issue an admission determination for the fiscal year, it would automatically default to the 125,000 admissions threshold. This is designed to prevent any regression in refugee admissions due to administrative inaction and aims to keep the U.S. at the forefront of international refugee assistance. The legislation also includes a requirement for the President to submit quarterly reports on refugee admissions, which will improve accountability and oversight regarding how many refugees are admitted, thus fostering public trust in the system.
Lady Liberty Act of 2025 This bill sets a floor of 125,000 for the maximum number of refugees who may be admitted into the United States each fiscal year beginning in FY2027. Under current law, the President sets the annual cap on refugee admissions at the beginning of each fiscal year.
Reaffirming the importance of the United States promoting the safety, health, and well-being of refugees and displaced persons in the United States and around the world.
Reaffirming the importance of the United States promoting the safety, health, and well-being of refugees and displaced persons in the United States and around the world.
Safeguards Ensuring Criminal and Unvetted Refugees don't Enter America Act or the SECURE America Act This bill imposes restrictions on the admission of aliens, including refugees, and addresses related issues. Specifically, no refugees may be admitted until Congress enacts a joint resolution setting the maximum number of refugees allowed to be admitted in a particular fiscal year. Currently, that number is set each fiscal year by the President. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must notify Congress at least 30 days before determining that an alien or class of aliens is eligible for refugee status. Congress may nullify the determination by enacting a joint resolution of disapproval. Further, an alien shall be inadmissible for holding certain beliefs, such as (1) believing that a system of religious law should be implemented in the United States, (2) believing that the alien does not need to learn English if the alien is not already fluent, or (3) any belief that the Department of State determines is incompatible with the principles of the United States. DHS may not parole into the United States an alien who does not have status under immigration law. Currently, DHS may provide parole in certain instances, including for urgent humanitarian reasons. Federal agencies must notify a state at least 30 days before resettling a refugee in that state. The refugee may not be resettled in that state if the state expresses disapproval. An alien who has committed a crime of violence (generally one involving the use or threat of physical violence against person or property) may not be eligible for refugee status and must be removed.
A resolution reaffirming the importance of the United States promoting the safety, health, and well-being of refugees and displaced persons in the United States and around the world.