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Richardson sends letter to Nixon about Syrian refugees

November 17, 2015
Governor Jay Nixon

State Capitol, Room 216

Jefferson City, MO 65101
Dear Governor Nixon:
In the wake of the tragic terrorist attacks that took place in Paris and with the continued threat of similar attacks here in the United States, I urge you to take swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of all Missouri citizens. During these difficult times, the state needs you to serve as a strong leader in working with the federal government to ensure a thorough screening process is in place before any refugees are allowed to relocate to this country, and specifically to our state.
I read with interest your statement yesterday:

“The safety of Missourians is my highest priority, and the terrorists who were involved in planning and perpetrating the attacks in Paris must be caught and brought to justice. The screening process for refugees is the responsibility of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and I call on our federal partners to implement the strongest possible safeguards to protect our state and nation.”
I note the statement’s remarkable lack of specificity regarding Missouri’s role, or lack thereof, in assisting in the resettlement of Syrian refugees in our state. While your statement does note the obvious – that it is ultimately the responsibility of the federal government to screen refugees – it fails to take any position on the resettlement of those refugees in Missouri.  
As I’m sure you are aware, a bipartisan group of 27 governors have opted not to participate in the resettlement efforts and have asked the Department of State to suspend resettlement efforts in those states until adequate security measures can be put in place. I am asking you to immediately join those efforts.  
I remain deeply concerned for the countless individuals fleeing war and religious oppression in the Middle East. As a nation that was created by individuals fleeing religious persecution, and as a country that owes much to the contributions of a diverse immigrant population, it is important that we continue to serve as a beacon of hope and compassion to those in need around the world. 
Throughout its history, America has provided refuge to the tired, the poor and the huddled masses yearning to breathe free, and it is imperative that our doors remain open to those who come to our nation with good intent, while at the same time turning away the terrorists who would do us harm.
Serious concerns have been raised about our immigration system and the capability of the federal government to adequately screen these individuals. The people of Missouri deserve to know with perfect clarity where you stand on this important issue. Furthermore, they deserve to know what involvement the state has had, or plans to have going forward, to assist in these resettlement efforts. Most importantly, the people of Missouri deserve to know the steps you are taking to ensure their safety.

Sincerely,

 

Todd Richardson

Speaker of the House