Feds: Texas Agencies Can't Stop Refugees

The federal government has informed refugee resettlement agencies on Wednesday in Texas that it is not within their authority to refuse or deny Syrians into the state. "States may not deny (Office of Refugee Resettlement)-funded benefits and services to refugees based on a refugee's country of origin or religious affiliation. Accordingly, states may not categorically deny ORR-funded benefits and services to Syrian refugees," a statement from the director of the office read. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission says they are going to oblige by Governor Abbott's wishes and not those of the federal government.