WASHINGTON, D.C. — Despite support from many Republicans and Democrats, the Afghan Adjustment Act was not included in the version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) the Senate passed Thursday.
The omission comes shortly before the Aug. 15 two-year anniversary of the fall of Kabul and with many evacuated allies’ initial protections about to run out. The Biden administration has allowed Afghans to renew their parole for another two years, but the protection remains temporary.
“The Senate’s omission is a missed opportunity that lets down our Afghan allies,” said Jennie Murray, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum. “The Afghan Adjustment Act has significant bipartisan support, and Congress must move it forward as quickly as possible. We hope the House and Senate will revisit the Afghan Adjustment Act in September as they work to finalize the NDAA.
“The Afghan Adjustment Act would strengthen vetting and bolster our national security, in addition to offering certainty to resettled Afghans. It has been great to see Republicans and Democrats working together on this bill. This fall, they must finish the job.”
Related resources:
- Last night the Council on National Security and Immigration has sent a letter to Congress urging swift passage of the Afghan Adjustment Act.
- Read the Forum’s summary of the Afghan Adjustment Act.
- Earlier this month the Evangelical Immigration Table urged Congress to pass this legislation.