Ohio's 8th Congressional District Blog

Keep Terrorists Out of America Act

Posted by Rep. John Boehner on May 07, 2009

House Republicans today introduced the Keep Terrorists Out of America Act. It shouldn’t have to be said: Bringing individuals who have trained and are committed to destroying our freedoms, liberties, way of life and our nation should not be brought into our country. But since the White House has not been able to provide us with a plan for where the detainees being held at Guantanamo Bay would go when the facility is closed, we thought it important to state the obvious.

There are some extremely dangerous individuals being held at Guantanamo Bay – certainly not the kind of people who should be brought into a general prison population in our communities. They are some of the world’s most cold-blooded terrorists who have dedicated their lives to killing us and our allies – and are more than willing to die for their cause.

The Keep Terrorists Out of America Act would:

Affirm Congress’ Opposition to the Release and Transfer of Terrorists. The bill affirms Congress’ opposition to transferring or releasing terrorists held at the Guantanamo Bay prison into the United States. Most Americans do not support releasing these terrorists from Guantanamo Bay prison and transferring them into the United States. The bill gives Congress an opportunity to show that it stands with the American people on this critical matter, and opposes the release and transfer of these terrorists.

Require Governor & State Legislature Pre-Approval. The measure prohibits the Administration from transferring or releasing any terrorist detainees at Guantanamo Bay to any state without express approval from the state’s governor and legislature, and certifies to Congress that strict requirements have been met. For example, the Administration must certify to the respective governor and state legislature that the detainee does not pose a security risk to the United States. The certifications must be made 60 days before any transfer or release.

Contain Presidential Certification Requirements. The measure prohibits the President from transferring or releasing a terrorist detainee into the United States unless he provides the following notification and certification to Congress regarding:

• The name of the detainee and transfer/release location in the United States.
• The release/transfer would not negatively impact continued prosecution of the detainee.
• The release/transfer would not negatively impact continued detention of the detainee.
• The ability of federal judges to release detainees into the United States.

Comments

The opinions expressed below are those of their respective authors and do not necessarily represent those of this office.

Alice Roberts commented on 5/8/2009

In my opinion, it would be a very big mistake to release any of these terrorists in the United States. To me, that would just encourage another attack on our country. It is very difficult to find the words that express my anger and distrust with this administration. I wonder how many members of Congress would want these thugs in their communities.
Tiffany B commented on 5/8/2009

I like it. Keep up the good work.
Stephanie Vivod commented on 5/13/2009

As a conservative surrounded by a family of liberals, I am familiar with the idea of "biting my tongue". But it seems as if this is the case with so many conservatives of late and not just since this current administration. People no longer banter in good old fashioned debate, they keep silent for fear of the hatred that stems from being on the "opposing" side. In my 24 years as a registered Republican my ideoligies remain the same, such as smaller government, show of strength by sufficient military and personal responsibility. I have never faltered in my faith that my party and it's representatives are still diligent in the effort to retain the core values of conservatism. This is the first time, however, that I have felt unnerved about the path apon which we are being led. With that said, I am so relieved and reassured that we have a representative of your caliber and passion toward his party and the protection of all American citizens. Thank you.
Donald Mollis commented on 7/21/2009

Today we lost four more US troops. At least 30 U.S. troops have now died this month — two more than the toll for June 2008, which had been the deadliest month for the American force in Afghanistan. At least 55 international troops have been killed in Afghanistan in July, the deadliest month of the war for the NATO mission. "Obama promised to support our troops". Another false promise This is looking like another "Somalia" when Clinton took office. This increase in troop fatalites is NOT ACCECPTABLE !!! our troops need your support now more than ever I know you support our troops and that's is one of many reasons I support you. My son is serving in the Army and just completed a 15 month tour in Iraq. We are going to Hawaii to see him before he goes to Afghanistan. You know, you can count on my support.