The bill, which passed 289-137, was pushed through the House less than a week after Islamic fundamentalist terrorists killed more than 100 people in Paris. One of the seven attackers was believed to have entered Greece posing as a Syrian refugee.
In a statement after the vote, Rep. Mike Turner, R-Dayton, said the bill strikes a balance between protecting American citizens and lending a hand to those fleeing war.
“America has a long and proud history of sheltering those in need,” Turner wrote. “However, we have a responsibility to balance those humanitarian beliefs with the safety and security of all Americans.”
The bill now goes to the Senate, which won’t likely take it up until after the Thanksgiving recess.
About the Author