ACTION ALERT: Protect Employment Authorization for Those Seeking Asylum

Silhouetted construction workers at sunset with crane and scaffolding.On Feb. 23, 2026, the U.S. government announced a proposed rule that would effectively shut down access to work permits for asylum seekers. Under this rule, according to the government’s own estimate, it could take up to 173 years before new work permit applications are accepted again. The rule would also make some renewals harder for those who already have work permits, and it offers no plan to fix the massive asylum backlog that created these delays in the first place. 

In the ELCA, “We oppose practices that create unreasonable obstacles and unattainable standards of proof for those seeking asylum” (ELCA social message on “Immigration,” p. 10) and affirm that “all residents, asylum-seekers, and refugees in the United States are to be protected as neighbors, even as they await determination of immigration status in the courts” (ELCA social message on “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy,” p. 13).

We also believe that dignified work is part of God’s plan for creation. Stripping people of the ability to work will make asylum seekers more vulnerable to exploitation, hunger or despair while simultaneously weakening the communities that have welcomed them and benefit from their contributions. 

This rule is not final. From now until Apr. 24, 2026, the government is accepting public comments on the proposal. By law, every unique, substantive comment must be read and addressed before the rule can move forward. 

You have the opportunity to act in two ways:

  1. Submit a public comment on the proposal via Global Refuge’s online tool until Apr. 24, 2026. You can read the ELCA’s public comment here.
  2. Use this ELCA Action Center form to call on members of Congress to raise their voices to oppose this rule and speak out against its implementation, ensuring that those seeking safety will retain the ability to meet their needs in our communities.

Personalize your public comment and message to Congress to oppose this rule and speak out against its implementation, ensuring that those seeking safety will retain the ability to meet their needs in our communities. Thank you for your advocacy.

[Posted: 4/16/2026]

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