Smith Votes to Strengthen National Security Through Visa Waiver Program Reform

Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement today after voting in favor of H.R. 158, the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Improvement Act.

“Recent terror attacks around the world, including one within our own borders, have demonstrated the need for leadership and new strategies to ensure the safety of Americans,” Smith said. “Many of the thousands who have traveled to Syria and Iraq to join ISIS hold passports from VWP countries, giving them the opportunity to enter the United States under far less rigorous security procedures. We must close this loophole and reform the program so our country can continue welcoming visitors while preventing further threats to our national security.”

H.R. 158 requires nationals of – or recent visitors to – Syria, Iraq, and other countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism to obtain a visa to enter the United States. The legislation also enhances screening for all people traveling to the U.S. from VWP countries and puts additional measures in place to ensure the accuracy of travel documents.