In the News

CBS4 (WFOR MIAMI)

Wasserman Schultz Blasts House Over Bill Halting Syrian Refugees

By Giovanna Maselli

MIAMI (CBSMiami) –U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) is speaking out against a bill, passed by the House, that would make it harder for refugees from Syria and Iraq to get into the U.S.

The vote for the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act (H.R. 4038) came in at 289-137. The bill comes less than a week after the terrorist attacks in Paris which killed and injured hundreds of people.

As part of the bill, security screenings will be tightened for both Syrian and Iraqi refugees and suspend President Barack Obama’s program to admit 10,000 refugees in 2016.

All this despite the president’s threat to veto the bill.

Following the vote, Wasserman Schultz, voted against the bill on Thursday and blasted the House for passing it, releasing a statement on the matter saying:

“The brutal attacks in Paris are the latest impact of ISIS’s horrific and morbid ideology perpetrated against innocent people worldwide. ISIS poses a serious threat to our nation and to American allies and interests worldwide. In times of danger and uncertainty, our top priority must be the safety and security of Americans and our homeland.

“H.R. 4038, however, is nothing more than a politically-driven and fear-mongering response to a serious threat. It will not ultimately strengthen our national security and in fact undermines the foundation upon which this nation was built.”

According to the bill, refugees wanting to come into the country would need more certifications and background checks completed before they are admitted into the U.S.