55 GOP State Lawmakers Urge Bullock to Block Syrian Refugee

Just over one-third of Montana's legislators are asking Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock to use all legal means to block or resist the placement of Syrian refugees in Montana.

The 55 Republicans say they are sympathetic to those impacted by the conflict in Syria, but they want to see federal refugee admission guidelines and policies strengthened.

A letter from lawmakers notes that more than 30 governors have taken steps to protect their states and they ask Bullock to direct state agencies to resist efforts to place Syrian refugees in Montana until Congressional efforts to improve the refugee admission process are complete.

Bullock has said he would deny refugees requesting settlement if there were any safety concerns, but that terrorists wouldn't intimidate the state into abandoning its values.

No Syrian refugees have asked to be settled in Montana.