Reps. Peters, Vargas to Introduce “Treason and Passport Revocation Act” to address Foreign Fighters from the United States

SAN DIEGO – Reps. Scott Peters (CA-52) and Juan Vargas (CA-51) today announced their plan to introduce the “Treason and Passport Revocation Act” when Congress reconvenes in November. This bill will require the Secretary of State to deny or revoke passports to any individual who is determined to be a member of, or affiliated with, a foreign terrorist organization. The bill would also amend the United States Code to deem membership or affiliation with a foreign terrorist organization, an act of treason.

“Preventing terrorists from harming American citizens is the most important job for Congress,” stated Rep. Peters. “The bill will stop those who have sided with terrorists from returning to the United States.”

“The United States is facing a major national security threat as Americans and other Westerners continue to fight for ISIS/ISIL in Iraq and Syria” said Vargas. “There is growing concern that these fighters will return to carry out attacks in the United States. Stripping these individuals of passports is a crucial step to ensure the safety of Americans.”

Under current law, the Secretary of State has the authority to limit or revoke a passport of an applicant whose activities abroad are seen as a threat to U.S. national security. This bill would make it a requirement for the Secretary of State to limit or revoke the passport of those who are members or are affiliated with foreign terrorist organizations.

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