In light of last weekend’s tragic terrorist attacks, Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) has called on Governor Cuomo to restrict Syrian refugees from entering New York State. McDonough’s comments come after 31 governors so far have announced that they will oppose any further influx of Syrian refugees into their states. Several moderate presidential candidates also have expressed concern over the immigration of Syrian refugees into the U.S. after a Syrian Passport was found near one of the French bombing sites.

“New York State simply does not have the resources necessary to properly screen and vet all Syrian refugees entering our borders,” McDonough said. “Over half the governors in our union, as well as several Middle Eastern nations, do not want to allow Syrian refugees to resettle in their regions. This is proof of the groundswell of anxiety and concern over ISIS operatives infiltrating our country.

“I support immigration and understand its role in shaping the diversity of our nation, but as a representative of Long Island, I am deeply concerned about the accessibility of New York State’s coastline and borders to potential terrorists. Our major metropolitan areas are prime targets for terrorist attacks, and that is a risk we cannot afford to take. I am officially calling on Governor Cuomo to close the borders, at least temporarily, to Syrian refugees until we can ascertain whether a threat exists inside our state and neutralize it. Our top priority should be the protection and safety of New Yorkers.”