State of the Union

The president has yet to mention Iraq, or refugees, in his address tonight, but he has already taken one significant action in relation to Iraqi refugees. Earlier today, President Bush Signs H.R. 4986, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 into law.

The Act, now law, contains provisions introduced by Senators Kennedy and Smith which will make it significantly easier for some Iraqis-- in particular those who have close ties to the united states-- to receive protection and asylum here. It creates 5,000 special immigrant visas for Iraqis who have worked with the U.S and makes them eligible for the same benefits as other Iraqi refugees. The bill also establishes requirements for a system that will allow Iraqis to seek admission to the US refugee program without leaving their country first-- a necessity since the states bordering Iraq have closed their borders to refugees. Many thanks to Senators Kennedy, Smith, and the full bipartisan list of co-sponsors. Many thanks to the e-activists, Iraqi and American friends, and RCUSA coalition partners who helped bring this bill to life.

The President is speaking about Iraq now, so I have to sign off and listen!