Dear Neighbors,
I have received numerous emails and phone calls from constituents regarding Syrian refugees entering the United States and Minnesota. I share many of your concerns and wanted to send an update with more information.
After the recent attacks in Paris and across the globe, I believe it is our government's first priority to keep Minnesota citizens safe. What is happening to innocent families and refugees in Syria is truly tragic and our hearts break for them. However, I would like to see our nation temporarily suspend its relocation program until the Department of Homeland Security can ensure it is adequately screening entrants to ensure we do not welcome terrorists into the United States or Minnesota.
Earlier this week, House Speaker Kurt Daudt sent Governor Dayton a letter asking him to call on President Obama to suspend the acceptance of any new Syrian refugees until the Department of Homeland Security completes a full review of its security procedures for screening those seeking refuge here. I, and many House members, agree with that call to action and believe Minnesota families deserve to know that our federal government has strong and thorough policies in place to prevent terrorists from entering this country and perpetrating attacks here on our soil.
However, I would like to point out that on this matter, there is little that our state government can actually do. The Refugee Act of 1980 and the Supreme Court’s ruling in Hines v. Davidowitz gave the federal government broad authority in this matter while also limiting the ability of states to accept or reject refugees. That's why I would encourage you to reach out to Congresswoman McCollum, Senator Klobuchar and Senator Franken to share your concerns.
While the decision regarding refugees comes from the federal level, I did vote for legislation this session that works to stop ISIS’s radicalization efforts here in Minnesota. Signed into law, this initiative funds efforts to combat the recruitment of Minnesota citizens by terrorist organizations, giving grants to local governments with identified populations who are at-risk for recruitment.
I will continue to work on keeping Minnesotans safe, and welcome any questions, concerns or ideas you would like to share.
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As your voice in St. Paul, if I can be of any assistance to you or your family on a matter of state government, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Kelly