HIAS Welcomes Introduction of GRACE Act

WASHINGTON — The past four years have seen dramatic declines in the number of refugees resettled in the United States. The Trump administration repeatedly slashed the U.S.’ annual refugee admission cap, eventually setting it an all-time low of just 15,000; the Biden administration has yet to raise that number. A new bill, introduced by Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts in the Senate and Representatives Zoe Lofgren of California and Joe Neguse of Colorado in the House, will ensure no future president can prevent the U.S. from taking up its responsibilities to the world’s most vulnerable peoples.

The Guaranteed Refugee Ceiling Enhancement Act, or GRACE Act, would set the minimum refugee admissions number at 125,000 per year, in line with historical norms. The law would protect America’s tradition of welcoming those in need of safety and its role as a global leader on humanitarian issues.

HIAS strongly supports the GRACE Act and urges Congress to pass it as quickly as possible. “The number of refugees who need help is larger than ever and we must recommit the United States as a beacon of hope to those fleeing violence and persecution,” Melanie Nezer said in a recent statement in support of the bill. “The GRACE Act safeguards our refugee resettlement program, and holds the United States accountable in responding adequately to the needs of refugees.”

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HIAS is the international Jewish humanitarian organization that provides vital services to refugees and asylum seekers in 16 countries. We advocate for the rights of all forcibly displaced people to rebuild their lives and seek to create a world in which they find safety, opportunity, and welcome.