The U.S. Senate is expected to hold a test vote later Wednesday on whether to severely restrict America's acceptance of refugees from Syria and Iraq, because of continuing fears that Islamic State and other terrorist infiltrators could be among the millions who have fled horrific violence and brutality in their home countries.
The House of Representatives passed the measure late last year with bipartisan support as the world reeled from IS-inspired attacks in Paris, France. It would require the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security and the Director of National Intelligence to certify that refugees pose no security risks before they could be approved for asylum in the United States.
The White House says the legislation is unneeded, as refugees already undergo an intensive vetting process that can take as long as two years. The White House also argues the measure would be counterproductive, tarnishing America's image abroad and handing Islamic State a propaganda tool.