Rep. Tom Reed (R-Corning)
(MEDIA RELEASE, TOM REED)
WASHINGTON – Congressman Tom Reed (R-Corning, NY 23) voted to pass the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act of 2015, which would require new security screenings for those seeking refugee status from Syria and Iraq.
“I care about keeping Americans safe. The sentiment from the people around our region and across the country was clear. The American people expect their leaders to put them first and protect them,” said Reed.
The bill passed in bipartisan fashion with over 289 members voting in support of the bill, including 47 Democrats. The vote closed in on the two-thirds majority needed to override a Presidential veto, which the President threatened in response to the proposal earlier this week.
“The wide bipartisan support transcends what traditionally divides us as we fight to defend our homeland,” Reed continued. “It’s only right that we put the interests of the American people first and make sure the right kind of security is in place.”
The bill prevents refugees from Syria and Iraq from seeking refugee status in the United States until multiple government agencies independently certify that there is no security threat from that individual. No Syrian or Iraqi refugee is able to enter the country without these clearances.
The Obama administration has pledged to allow roughly 10,000 refugees from Syria and Iraq into the United States over the next year.
The Senate is expected to consider the proposal in the near future.
Leave a Reply