Senate Panel Approves Ayotte Legislation on Guantanamo Detainees

Press Release

This afternoon, the Senate Armed Services Committee approved legislation authored by U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) that extends and enhances prohibitions and limitations with respect to the transfer or release of individuals detained at the Guantanamo Bay detention facility. The Detaining Terrorists to Protect America Act of 2015 (S. 165) was approved by the full committee on a 14-12 vote.

"I am pleased that the Senate Armed Services Committee passed our legislation that would suspend transfers of the most dangerous Guantanamo detainees to foreign countries, prevent the transfer of Guantanamo detainees to the United States, and require greater transparency with the American people. When the administration transfers a Guantanamo detainee, especially those formerly assessed as a high or medium risk for reengagement in terrorism, the onus is on the administration to explain openly to the American people what has changed-particularly when nearly 30 percent of former Guantanamo detainees are suspected or confirmed of reengaging in terrorism. It is a simple matter of transparency and honesty with the American people. I look forward to the consideration of our legislation by the full Senate."

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