Legal Action

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) challenge the defunding of refugee assistance programs. Executive Order 14163, entitled “Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program,” suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), a longstanding pathway for those seeking refugee status in the United States, and cut off funding for non-profits and government partners running refugee assistance programs. The USCCB has long provided assistance to immigrants and refugees through its partnership with the federal government, and relies upon federal funding to operate its refugee resettlement programs. Since January 24, 2025, the USCCB has had all funding for refugee assistance terminated. The USCCB argues that Executive Order 14163 violates the Administrative Procedure Act by redirecting funds designated by Congress to aid refugees and refugee resettlement programs away from their intended purpose. The plaintiff requests that the court find the termination of funding for refugee services unlawful and order the defendants to restore funding.

On January 23, 2026, the case was dismissed without prejudice pursuant to the plaintiff’s notice of voluntary dismissal.