Washington, D.C. – Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) is deeply alarmed by Congress’ passage of the rescission bill (H.R. 4). Once signed into law, it will cancel $9 billion in congressionally appropriated funding for fiscal year 2025, including critical support for foreign aid and refugee programs. These cuts will have devastating consequences for millions of vulnerable children and families around the world, denying them access to lifesaving services. 

Among the reductions is $800 million from the State Department’s Migration and Refugee Assistance program, which could directly impact LSSNCA’s Reception and Placement services to refugees already in the United States, including support to Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders.  

“The impacts of the rescission package will be felt by LSSNCA program participants who have arrived and are in urgent need of support—individuals such as Afghan SIV holders—who depend on these resources to begin rebuilding their lives. Resettlement services are not a luxury; they are a lifeline,” said LSSNCA CEO Kristyn Peck. 

This bill not only abandons the United States’ responsibility as a global humanitarian leader but also jeopardizes the safety and dignity of individuals who have already fled persecution and conflict. Refugees approved for travel under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program remain stranded, as the program  is largely suspended with only limited exceptions. Rescinding already appropriated funds further delays—and, in many cases, denies—their access to safety and resettlement. 

We urge the administration to protect the values of welcome, responsibility, and humanitarian leadership that have long defined our nation’s approach to those seeking refuge. 

“Despite these setbacks, LSSNCA remains committed to the values of welcome and safety, which have defined our communities for decades,” Peck said.