Markey’s GRACE Act Calls for Raising of
Refugee Cap to 125K Per Fiscal Year
Washington
(May 3, 2021) – U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following
statement today after President Biden raised the FY2021 annual refugee
admissions cap to 62,500 and FY2022 annual refugee admissions cap to 125,000.
Senator Markey introduced the
GRACE Act with Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-19) and Rep. Joe Neguse (CO-02),
legislation that would statutorily lift the annual refugee cap to 125,000 in
each fiscal year.
“Today
the United States’ beacon of freedom and safety shines bright after four years
of darkness,” said Senator Markey. “This
country has always been a haven for those fleeing persecution around the world,
and I applaud President Biden’s decision to raise the annual refugee admissions
cap. We are turning the page on Donald Trump’s inhumane, racist, and
ineffective refugee and immigration policies. While this decision is not a
panacea for the dismantling of our refugee admissions system by Trump, it is a
critical step for our country and those around the work looking for a better
life.
“We
must pass the GRACE Act to ensure that no U.S. president can ever again trade
in xenophobia for partisan gain. We can and must honor our national commitment
to welcoming those who have fled their homes in search of a better life.”
