INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A Syrian family has been diverted to Connecticut after Indiana officials objected to the refugees resettling in their state.
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence ordered state agencies to halt resettlement activities after the deadly attacks in Paris. He and other governors say they want assurances that proper security measures are in place.
Indiana officials sent letters Tuesday to Exodus Refugee Immigration Inc. and Catholic Charities Indianapolis saying plans to accept two Syrian families should be halted.
Exodus Executive Director Carleen Miller says she doesn’t believe the state has the power to stop the resettlements but didn’t want the family to go through any additional “scrutiny or drama.”
The family of three has been waiting since 2012 to be resettled in the U.S., and was scheduled to arrive in Indianapolis on Thursday.
Gov. Mike Pence issued the following statement on Monday explaining his decision.
In the wake of the horrific attacks in Paris, effective immediately, I am directing all state agencies to suspend the resettlement of additional Syrian refugees in the state of Indiana pending assurances from the federal government that proper security measures have been achieved. Indiana has a long tradition of opening our arms and homes to refugees from around the world but, as governor, my first responsibility is to ensure the safety and security of all Hoosiers. Unless and until the state of Indiana receives assurances that proper security measures are in place, this policy will remain in full force and effect. The Refugee Resettlement Office in the Division of Family Resources in the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) administers the Syrian resettlement program.
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Additional reporting by TPM’s Allegra Kirkland
