Speech #860266623

The bill would also give the Secretary authority to withhold a passport in the national interest on the basis of confidential information where the Secretary certifies that it is contrary to the interests of this Nation that a passport be issued to the applicant. But in the very next sentence. the bill provides thatThe Secretary of State shall not deny a passport to any person solely on the basis of membership in any organization. association with any individual or group. adherence to unpopular views. or criticisms of the United States or its domestic or foreign policies. Senators will note that the bill amends both the Passport Act and the Immigration and Nationality Act. and would bring both these acts into line in conformity with the principles I have just explained. With regard to blanket refusals of passports for travel to particular areas. the bill establishes the criterion of a predetermination by the Secretary of State either that first. the U.S. Government is unable to provide adequate protection to persons traveling in the particular country or area. due to the lack of diplomatic relations or due to disturbances within such country or area. or second. that travel of U.S. nationals to or in the particular country or area would seriously impair the foreign relations or foreign policy of the United States.