What prompted the Trump administration to halt funding for refugee resettlement?

The Trump administration halted funding for refugee resettlement through an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, citing a review to determine if refugee resettlement is in the national interest.

How many refugees are affected by the funding suspension?

The funding suspension affects 6,758 refugees who were assigned to the care of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and are still within their 90-day transition period.

What legal grounds does the USCCB cite in its lawsuit against the Trump administration?

The USCCB lawsuit argues that the funding suspension violates federal laws, including the Refugee Act of 1980, and the constitutional provision giving Congress the power of the purse.

What are the immediate consequences for the USCCB due to the funding freeze?

The funding freeze has led to the layoff of 50 employees from the USCCB's Migration and Refugee Services office, more than half of its staff, and additional cuts are expected in local Catholic Charities offices.

4 sources·Politics

U.S. Bishops File Lawsuit Against Trump Administration Over Halted Refugee Funding

The USCCB accuses the Trump administration of illegally suspending funds for refugee resettlement, impacting thousands of refugees and staff.

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The Trump White House has faced resistance from religious organizations over its sweeping immigration crackdown.
Trump faces another lawsuit from religious leaders over his immigration moves
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The bishops group also said the pause in funding means that it is now on the hook for millions in costs incurred, violating federal laws.
US Catholic Bishops Sue Trump Administration Over Halt in Refugee Funding
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The lawsuit is based on the Refugee Act of 1980, under which the USCCB has worked with the government to resettle more than 930,000 refugees.
Catholic bishops sue Trump admin over suspension of refugee program funding
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Feb 19th, 2025, 6:21 PM ET

Summary

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The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has sued the Trump administration, claiming an illegal suspension of funds for refugee resettlement. The halt has forced layoffs of 50 employees and left the agency with millions in unpaid reimbursements. USCCB asserts that the action violates federal law and jeopardizes its ability to support over 6,700 refugees recently admitted to the country. While the administration argues for a review of funding programs, opposition from religious groups continues as they seek to uphold their commitment to vulnerable populations.

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