Katko, Pfluger on DHS Weakening Refugee Vetting Requirements

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Rep. John Katko (R-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, and Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX), Ranking Member of the Intelligence and Counterterrorism Subcommittee, responded to reoccurring reports that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is weakening screening and vetting requirements for refugees seeking asylum in the United States.

“We are extremely concerned by continued reports of this administration’s reckless practices when it comes to the screening and vetting of those entering our borders. From reports of DHS failing to use information gathered from the interviews of Afghan evacuees to relaxing interview standards across the board, including for the droves of those illegally crossing the southern border, we have continually stressed that we must address these vetting failures and security vulnerabilities. The security of our homeland is far too fragile to not be approached with the highest level of scrutiny.

“In August, we requested a classified briefing from DHS on the screening and vetting of those evacuated during the Afghan airlift. After repeated follow-up, we have yet to receive this briefing. As the Homeland Security Committee, we cannot assure the American people of their safety if we ourselves have not received the necessary information from the Department. Allowing even one terrorist or cartel member to enter the homeland is unacceptable and can have tragic consequences. DHS must fulfill its duty to protect the American people from these bad actors and we, along with the American people, expect transparency in those efforts.”

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