Cramer Co-Sponsors Legislation to Reform Refugee Resettlement Program
Press Release
Congressman Kevin Cramer today announced he is co-sponsoring H.R. 3573, the Refugee Resettlement Oversight and Security Act. The legislation is in response to concerns raised about President Obama's plan to increase the number of refugees allowed to resettle in the United States from Syria and the Middle East. It was introduced by Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security.
"America has always been a beacon for immigrants and refugees escaping tyranny and oppression," said Cramer. "Americans are right to question if these refugees will be a threat to our national security. This bill adds additional security screening and involvement of the FBI and other agencies helping ensure ISIS and other terrorist groups cannot take advantage of our compassion. "
Currently, the administration sets the number of refugees the United States will accept each year. This bill gives Congress final approval on the yearly refugee quota.
"It is time for Congress and not the President to determine how many refugees are admitted into the United States each year," said Cramer.
The impact to local governments and school districts because of the influx of refugees has not been calculated. "It will be taxpayers footing the bill for these refugees. State and local governments should be concerned about the impact these refugees will have on their budgets," said Cramer.
The lack of transparency concerning the admission of refugees from Syria and other Middle Eastern countries has also raised concerns among many people.
"H.R 3573 ensures the United States remains open to those escaping despots and dictators, while also being transparent, so the American people know the number and the process by which refugees will be allowed into the country. The public should know how many refugees are being admitted into the U.S., where they are being placed, and how many are expected to arrive in the future," said Cramer.
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