ARK GOV ON REFUGEES - President Donald Trump’s administration had issued an executive order late last year giving states the right to refuse acceptance of refugees. Most states, like Arkansas and Louisiana have opted in, though Texas’ Governor Gregg Abbott announced on Jan. 10 that the Lone Star State would not. Abbott cited the number of migrant apprehensions at the border and a broken immigration system as reasons why Texas won’t accept additional refugees and says organizations have to use resources to take care of who is already in the country, including refugees and the homeless.
Abbott’s decision to bar refugees from being resettled in Texas is drawing criticism from a number of groups, including Catholic leaders and Democratic lawmakers. Russell Smith is CEO of Refugee Services of Texas. He says this is especially disappointing since more than 40 other governors of both parties have already opted into the program.
“Beause they understood the implications of bringing in a group of individuals who are fleeing from war and oppression," explained Smith. "And how refugees make our communities and our state a richer place, both enhancing the community and from an economic standpoint.”
Some Texas politicians have expressed concern over Governor Abbott’s decision ;one of those is Republican Senator John Cornyn.
“I think legal immigration is a good thing. These refugees, once they come to the United States, they’re not required to live where they’re settled. So, I look forward to having that conversation with the Governor.”
Among the Republican Governors agreeing to accept refugees is Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas. Appearing before a joint meeting of the Arkansas House and Senate- City, County and Local Affairs Committees this week, Hutchinson addressed concerns- one in particular is that refugees wouldn’t or couldn’t assimilate well in Arkansas.
"So it's not anything unusual about having a cultural identity with where you came from," explained Hutchinson."At the same time being as steadfast and loyal Americans as anyoune that's been here since the Revolution."
Hutchinson explained that Arkansas will accept refugees throughout this year and then will advise the State Department regarding future participation. He also urged state and community leaders to consider their role in helping others understand the refugee process and how they can address negative perceptions.
“Each of you are leaders in your community," Hutchinson told lawmakers. "You’ve got a choice to make: You can create fear or you can help resolve fear.”
As for Trump’s executive order allowing states to refuse refugees … Immigration advocates challenged it in federal court, calling it cruel and shortsighted. Yesterday a federal judge in Maryland has temporarily blocked the president’s executive order – meaning state and local officials cannot block refugees from being resettled in their jurisdictions… U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte said it flies in the face of the 1980 refugee act passed by Congress. No word yet as to whether the Trump administration will appeal the ruling.
