National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017

Floor Speech

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Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I worked with Senator McCain and Senator Shaheen, and we agreed to 2,500 new refugees who would enter under this program, and we had some language in there that tightened it up. This legislation allows an unlimited number to come here under the program and does not have the language that tightens up the program and brings it to an end eventually. That is the difference of opinion at this point.

I am disappointed this was brought up, and last night we first learned about it.

I would just note, there are 7,000 visas authorized over the last few years; only 3,500 have been used and 3,500 remain. The House extends the program. It does not add any additional number. They considered it at length. Chairman Goodlatte opposes this.

Also, the motion fails to acknowledge the need to pay for and prioritize the visas. These visas will cost, according to CBO, $281 million over 10 years. Just 2,500 would cost that much so this has an unlimited number.

I think the right thing for us to do is to not agree to this motion to instruct.

I would be glad to work with Senator McCain and Senator Shaheen and support the agreement we reached last time that got blocked by other Members for other reasons, but I oppose this because it is unlimited, it is unpaid for, and I don't believe it is necessary based on the facts on the ground.

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