A proposal by U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL) to screen the social media activity of foreigners seeking entry into the U.S. was backed on Thursday by the chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee.
Committee Chairman U.S Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) voiced support for Buchanan’s Social Media Screening for Terrorist Act, H.R. 4301. The measure would direct the Department of Homeland Security to screen all available public records, including social media history, of foreign travelers who seek admission to the country.
“This legislation adds an important and necessary layer of screening that will go a long way in properly vetting the online activities of those wishing to enter the United States,” McCaul said. “A simple check of social media accounts of foreign travelers and visa applicants will help ensure that those who have participated in, pledged allegiance to, or communicated with terrorist organizations cannot enter the United States. I know this will be a useful tool for the Department of Homeland Security and will aid in securing our homeland.”
McCaul’s support for Buchanan’s bill came days after Director of National Intelligence James Clapper testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee that ISIS would likely continue using social media to disseminate propaganda and recruit followers in the year ahead.
“The United States cannot be complacent as extremists try to spread their fanaticism and inspire attacks using social media,” Buchanan said. “We must do everything in our power to protect Americans.”
U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) has introduced companion legislation in the Senate.