LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Michigan cities and communities will continue to accept refugees, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has revealed.
Previously, the Trump Administration had issued an executive order that required states to provide written consent in order to accept refugees. The order was meant to give the choice to state and local jurisdictions in deciding to resettle refugees in their areas.
As written, if a State or locality has not provided consent to receive refugees under the program, then refugees would not be resettled within that area.
Governor Whitmer confirmed the continued acceptance of refugees in a letter to the U.S. Department of State this week.
“Michigan has a rich history of welcoming refugees and other immigrants to our state,” Whitmer said. “We recognize the value of being a welcoming state, and the contribution of refugees to the fabric of our communities. I am committed to ensuring that we remain a leader in responding to the needs of globally displaced families and individuals.”
The letter by Whitmer can be read in full at this link.
The announcement comes following the news of a refugee resettlement resolution passed by Kalamazoo County officials earlier this month.
