Thompson Urges Caution, Supports Bill to Temporarily Halt Syrian Refugee Program

Washington, DC –S. Rep. Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (PA-05) today voted in favor of H.R. 4038, the American Security Against Foreign Enemies (SAFE) Act. The measure passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 289-137. It would temporarily suspend the program allowing Syrian and Iraqi refugees into the United States until an adequate screening program is in place to certify each individual does not pose a national security risk.

Thompson issued the following statement, and addressed the House of Representatives, regarding this legislation:

“It is always important to support those who are fleeing conflicts across the world. However, in light of the comments of CIA Director John Brennan about the possibility of additional attacks and on the security concerns surrounding these refugees – I feel, that at this time, the danger posed to our safety is too great for this program to continue.

“This legislation puts a hold on refugee admissions until we are sure that adequate screening security is in place to combat these threats. This is the first of many steps in providing security for people across our nation, while standing by our long-standing humanitarian tradition.”

In addition, Thompson joined a bipartisan group of House members in asking President Obama to put a temporary hold on the program. He also joined members of the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation in requesting that Gov. Tom Wolf place a moratorium on accepting refugees into the Commonwealth.