Congressman Panetta Statement on Attorney General Sessions’ Decision to Limit Asylum For Domestic, Gang Violence Victims

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) released the following statement after Attorney General Jeff Sessions ordered immigration judges to limit asylum relief for thousands of victims of domestic abuse and gang violence.

"The United States must not slam the door on women fleeing domestic violence, LGBT refugees searching for sanctuary, and countless more seeking asylum in our country. This decision does not make us more safe, and will only result in more cases of domestic abuse, rape, and death throughout the world. In April, I wrote to the Attorney General expressing deep concerns with his choice to reconsider this decision. I am very disappointed that my concerns fell on deaf ears."

Read Congressman Panetta's letter to the Department of Justice, here.