Stutzman Statement on Passage of Syrian Refugee Legislation

Statement

U.S. Congressman Marlin Stutzman issued this statement today following the passage of H.R. 4038, the American Security Against Foreign Enemies (SAFE) Act of 2015 by a 289-137 vote.

"ISIS has made clear they wish to attack the United States. We must take every precaution to avoid this outcome. At this time, it is important that the American people be given full assurances from President Obama that everything that can be done is being done to accurately confirm the identity and background of each refugee we accept into the United States. If there was ever a time to make sure we get this right, now is that time. There is no room for error. This is why yesterday I joined 109 of my colleagues in sending a letter to President Obama asking him to place a pause on accepting refugees from Syria and Iraq until the federal government can create a truly thorough vetting process to identify individuals who pose a threat to our country.

"To strengthen this vetting process, I was proud today to support the American SAFE Act, which not only requires comprehensive background checks on every refugee but also mandates that the Secretary of Homeland Security, Director of the FBI and the Director of National Intelligence certify to Congress that a refugee is not a security threat to the United States before he or she is allowed to enter the United States.

"Our strong desire to help those deeply affected by the terror inflicted in Syria reflects the compassion of our country. However, our government's first responsibility is to maintain the safety and security of the American people. This bill will help us do that and I encourage the President to sign it."

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