A Message from Sen. Henri Martin, Rep. Cara Pavalock and Rep. Whit Betts:

We believe in the American Dream.

We support our nation’s long tradition of humanitarian aid and welcoming refugees from around the world in search of a better life in the United States.

But we want the taxpayers we represent to know the following:

We feel that the recent decision by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to allow refugees from Syria into Connecticut, while well intentioned, could potentially threaten the security of our residents.

Ensuring the safety of our citizens is a fundamental responsibility of our state and federal government.

Given the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, we must be on heightened alert and give extra scrutiny to refugees coming into the United States.

Until we have more answers, we must proceed with extreme caution.

Republican legislative leaders have written to our Connecticut Congressional Delegation and to Gov. Malloy, asking the following questions:

• Do we have assurances that extensive background checks will be conducted?
• Who will be responsible for paying for the related costs?
• If the state is responsible, how will the state pay for the refugees to live here given our budget deficits?
• Will this be a permanent cost to the state?
• Where will they live?

Until we can confirm the security and vetting process for refugees and guarantee that the people coming to Connecticut are not a threat to the safety of our residents, we believe we should not grant entry.

• We urge greater Bristol residents to continue contacting the governor with their concerns during business hours at 860-566-4840.
• You can also email the governor your thoughts at [email protected] .
• Feel free to copy us on the email at [email protected] , [email protected] , and [email protected] .

We will continue to keep you posted on this serious security matter.