DOVER — Republican lawmakers introduced legislation Wednesday that would require state officials be notified if refugees from certain countries settle in the state.
House Bill 299 would mandate the head of the Department of Health and Social Services inform the governor and secretary of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security if refugees from a country the federal government considers a supporter of terrorism are settled in the state.
The Refugee Resettlement Program in Delaware works with Catholic Charities to aid refugees.
Following a November terrorist attack in Paris, about half the nation’s states pledged not to accept Syrian refugees. Gov. Jack Markell, a Democrat, said he is opening to Delaware receiving refugees.
Deborah Hudson
“Given the governor’s last stated position on this issue, I felt, as an elected official, it was imperative to have a policy in place that requires the immediate notification of Delaware’s Homeland Security Department when Delaware is accepting refugees from countries where acts of terrorism are supported,” main sponsor Rep. Deborah Hudson, R-Hockessin, said. “Very simply, but most importantly, our bill is intended to protect the safety of Delaware citizens. They have the right to know.”