Bill Keating: “I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 425, the Foreign Terrorist…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 425, the Foreign Terrorist Organization Passport Revocation Act. Mr. Speaker, I can't speak to the subject of terrorism without condemning the senseless and heinous attack that took place yesterday in New York City. My prayers are with all the individuals and families that were affected. My utmost respect goes to the New York City community that, once again, stands strong, stands together, unintimidated. Mr. Speaker, I introduced this important piece of legislation, H.R. 425, together with Chairman Poe of the Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade. As we have discussed, this legislation works to strengthen the tools we have at our disposal for combating terrorism. Put simply, the Secretary of State can refuse to issue or revoke the passport to any individual the Secretary determines is affiliated with or has aided, assisted, or abetted a designated foreign terrorist organization. The terrorist treats that we face today are complex. Our Federal, State, and local agencies are fighting terrorism at a time when ISIS and other terrorist organizations are able to use new technologies and means of communication to connect with individuals around the globe to fund, to direct, and inspire acts of terror.…”