Trump admin considers program rollback that would bar most refugees from resettling in US: report

The Trump administration is considering cutting back a refugee program, preventing refugees from most of the world from moving to the United States, The New York Times reported.

The Times reported an administration official proposed ending the program and giving the president authority to allow refugees in the country in emergencies.

Officials are also considering slicing the number of refugees allowed for entry by half or more. These refugees would be chosen from countries with special status, particularly who cooperate with American troops, diplomats and intelligence operatives, the Times reported.

The program has existed for decades and allowed tens of thousands of people to restart their lives and leave behind countries filled with war, persecution and famine.

The implementation of either of these plans would effectively end the United States’s status as one of the top nations accepting refugees around the world, the Times reported. The United States has overall welcomed more refugees than any other country, according to the National Immigration Forum.

These proposals align with the Trump administration’s latest moves to limit the number of immigrants and refugees that enter the United States.

The Department of Homeland Security announced a new rule to go into effect on Oct. 15 that will allow the denial of legal status to immigrants who use public benefits.