Schumer: We Need To Focus Our Attention Where It Matters -- On Individuals Who Are Coming Here To Do Us Harm

Statement

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced a new two-pronged push to ensure that ISIS terrorists are not able to slip into the United States through the Visa Waiver Program or allowed to purchase firearms and explosives. As many as 20 million visitors come into the United States each year through the program, which allows international visitors from designated countries to legally bypass the traditional visa process. Experts have raised concerns about the prospect of an ISIS recruit attempting to travel to the U.S. on a fraudulent paper passport issued by a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program, which would allow that individual to avoid biometric screening and an in-person interview before departure, which is required of prospective refugees, along with multiple other checks. In addition, Schumer said Congress should immediately close the loophole that allows people on the terrorist watch list to purchase firearms and explosives.

"The recent attack in Paris was an attack on free peoples everywhere, and the United States must make sure that terrorists cannot enter this country or purchase firearms and explosions" said Schumer. "Congress should immediately take action to guard against terrorists sneaking in through the Visa Waiver program as well as the dangerous and indefensible loophole that allows people on the terrorist watch list to purchase guns and explosives. I will be urging my colleagues to start focusing on the real solutions to the dangers posed by ISIS."

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