The SAFE Act (full title American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act of 2015) was a United States legislative proposal for Syrian and Iraqi refugees that would require extra background investigation before entry into the US.
Additional procedure to authorize admission for each refugee[1]
The Department of Homeland Security, FBI and Director of National Intelligence unanimously certify to Congress that the refugee not such a threat.
The bill was first introduced in the House on November 17, 2015, H.R. 4038 by Michael McCaul.[1] It was passed by the House, but on January 20, 2016, it failed cloture in the senate (also known as a filibuster.)[2]
Background
The SAFE Act was created in response to the November 2015 Paris attacks, out of concern that ISIL terrorists would enter the United States posing as refugees fleeing Syria.[3]
Criticism
FBI Director James Comey said the SAFE Act "seeks to micromanage the process in a way that is counter-productive to national security, to our humanitarian obligation, and the overall ability to focus on Homeland Security".[4]
Vice-President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini pointed out that the Paris attackers were EU citizens, not Syrian refugees.[5]
Barack Obama threatened to veto the legislation if passed.[4]
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