Statement for the Senate Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Immigration and the National Interest on "Oversight of the Administration's FY 2017 Refugee Resettlement Program"

The American Immigration Council submitted a written statement to the Senate Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Immigration and the National Interest for a September 26, 2016 hearing on "Oversight of the Administration's FY 2017 Refugee Resettlement Program." The statement emphasizes the important role that the United States has played in the past in protecting the world's most vulnerable people and why we need to continue to welcome those fleeing dire situations and not deny them entry. Currently, the United States has a vigorous 13-step screening process in place that usually takes about 18-24 months to complete. There are people fleeing unprecedented levels of violence in Central America and it is vital that those who arrive at our borders seeking protection under asylum law are given their due process. Additionally, the statement details that once refugees have been living in the U.S., they have have high rates of employment and many go on to make substantial contributions to their communities.