What’s New?
The budget reconciliation bill (H.R. 1) is now law.
Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) is gravely concerned about the impact on Americans who are already struggling to make ends meet, as well as new neighbors rebuilding their lives after escaping violence and persecution.
“The budget bill signed into law this Fourth of July deeply undermines core American values,” said LSSNCA CEO Kristyn Peck. “It dramatically restructures the U.S. economy, slashing programs that provide health care and put food on the table for the most vulnerable. This bill erodes a vital social safety net, while significantly increasing the budget for Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” she said.
Thank you to all who voiced your concern about this harmful legislation, including members of Congress who voted against the bill.
Now more than ever, we must continue speaking with our elected officials at all levels of government about the law’s impact on neighbors, friends, and loved ones.
What Else?
Nationwide Injunction Blocks Efforts to End Birthright Citizenship
The ruling is significant, as the current injunction preventing the order from being implemented was to be lifted at the end of the month due to a recent Supreme Court decision that restricts the ability of lower courts to issue broad, nationwide injunctions – except through class-action lawsuits.
U.S. Veterans Attend Asylum Court with Afghan Allies
Hundreds of U.S. veterans are volunteering to accompany Afghan allies to their asylum court hearings through Battle Buddies. This volunteer initiative – led by #AfghanEvac and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) – was started after an Afghan interpreter and logistics contractor was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents following their asylum hearing.
How You Can Help
In this moment of uncertainty, here are three ways you can support your neighbors and the community:
- Donate – Support LSSNCA’s services for our neighbors.
- Volunteer – Join LSSNCA as a volunteer. Opportunities range from one-day engagements, events, or long-term mentorships.
- Learn – Read our FY24 Impact Report to learn more about our work.
