"On January 27, 2017, President Trump and White House officials released its second iteration of the controversial immigration and travel ban. President Trump’s first Executive Order was found to be discriminatory toward Muslim immigrants and struck down in federal court. From his initial travel ban, individuals from seven Muslim-majority countries were barred entry to the United States – including those who possessed valid visas to legally work or study in the United States. It also temporarily suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days, while indefinitely banning Syrian residents from entering the U.S.
As President Trump’s Administration continues to argue that our national security is at risk due to immigration from the Muslim-majority countries included in the Executive Order, a recently leaked report from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) refutes this claim. The report cites a lack of evidence to support the Administration’s claims that barring those from the seven Muslim-majority countries will reduce the threat of terrorism. The new ban allows continuous unwarranted chaos and disruption for businesses, families, and those seeking a better life and opportunity.
The new travel ban issued today will take effect on March 16, 2017. Foreign nationals from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen who are outside of the U.S. and who did not hold a valid visa or green card on January 27, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. eastern standard time will not be granted entry to the United States. During the 90-day period, DHS plans to look at the system in place and make revisions to the vetting process. Refugees who have waited many years and endured the vetting process will likely see their applications expire and may have to redo the entire process again, prolonging their time spent in danger and separated from their families.
We should not impose a racially or religiously motivated litmus test on individuals in order to gain entry into the United States. It is unconstitutional and is contrary to the values we treasure as Americans." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson
