Community Assent for Refugee Entry Act of 2025; CARE Act of 2025
Summary
The Community Assent for Refugee Entry Act of 2025, also known as the CARE Act of 2025, aims to limit refugee resettlement in states or localities where the governor, state legislature, chief executive, or local legislature has formally disapproved of such resettlement. This bill amends Section 412 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. It introduces a new subsection that would prevent refugee resettlement in areas with formal disapproval.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would grant states and localities greater control over refugee resettlement within their jurisdictions. This could lead to a decrease in refugee resettlement in certain areas. It may also create inconsistencies in refugee placement across the country.
Potential Benefits
- Could allow states and localities to better manage resources and social services by limiting refugee influx.
- May address concerns of local populations regarding cultural integration and economic impact.
- Could empower local governments to align resettlement policies with community preferences.
- Could lead to a more focused and efficient allocation of resources for refugee resettlement in areas that are welcoming.
- May reduce potential social tensions arising from differing opinions on refugee resettlement.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could reduce the overall number of refugees resettled in the U.S., potentially violating international humanitarian obligations.
- May lead to discrimination against refugees based on location.
- Could create logistical challenges and increased costs for the federal government in coordinating resettlement efforts.
- May negatively impact communities that rely on refugee populations for economic contributions and cultural diversity.
- Could undermine the principle of providing refuge to those fleeing persecution.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. While states have certain powers, the federal government generally has broad authority over immigration and naturalization (Article I, Section 8). The bill could be challenged as infringing upon the federal government's power to establish a uniform rule of naturalization. Additionally, the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment could be invoked if the law is applied in a discriminatory manner.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).