In the wake of
the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, Gov. Rauner has joined dozens of
Governors across the country in temporarily suspending the process of accepting
Syrian refugees into Illinois.
Citing the
importance of homeland security and citizen safety, the Governor has called for
a review of the federal acceptance process used by the Department of Homeland
Security before any action is taken.
Gov. Rauner’s
full statement to the people of Illinois:
“Our
nation and our state have a shared history of providing safe haven for those
displaced by conflict, but the news surrounding the Paris terror attacks
reminds us of the all-too-real security threats facing America. We must find a
way to balance our tradition as a state welcoming of refugees while ensuring
the safety and security of our citizens. Therefore, the state of Illinois will
temporarily suspend accepting new Syrian refugees and consider all of our legal
options pending a full review of our country’s acceptance and security
processes by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”