Mr. Speaker. I thank Chairwoman MILLER for introducing this legislation to address the serious security gaps in the Visa Waiver Program. and I thank Congresswoman LOFGREN for putting our countrys security over partisanship to advance this commonsense measure. I am a cosponsor of this legislation because it makes sensible. bipartisan changes to address the security gaps in the Visa Waiver Program and prevent Islamic State and other terrorist networks from using the program to gain access to the United States. The Islamic State is one of the worlds most violent and dangerous terrorist groups. To keep our country safe. we must be one step ahead of them. preventing them from entering the United States and stopping their efforts. The Visa Waiver Program allows travelers from approved countries to visit the United States for up to 90 days without a visa. This program is an important tool that grows our economy and supports ease of travel for American citizens. The reasonable changes included in this bill strengthen the Visa Waiver Program. This bill requires partner nations to issue electronic passports. strengthening the screening process of program participants. It also addresses the concerns raised by my bill. H.R. 4122. introduced with Congressman MATT SALMON. to suspend the Visa Waiver Program for individuals who have traveled in the last 5 years to Syria and Iraq. to countries that are state sponsors of terrorism. or to countries with active terrorist networks. I thank Chairman MILLER for including this important provision. I thank Congresswomen MILLER and LOFGREN for advancing this important legislation.
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