© 2024 WUKY
background_fid.jpg
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Governor And Governor-Elect Differ On Refugee Issue

worldvision.org

Kentucky's incoming Republican governor has joined governors of several states in opposing the resettlement of Syrian refugees in light of the recent terror attacks in Paris.

Republican Governor-elect Matt Bevin's stance is at odds with Kentucky's current governor. Democratic Governor Steve Beshear said Monday Kentucky should do "the Christian thing" and welcome all refugees who have passed extensive background checks.

But it appears Kentucky's governor does not have much authority in resettling international refugees. Kentucky Office of Refugees director Becky Jordan said Kentucky privatized its resettlement program about 20 years ago. All federal dollars associated with the program now flow through the Catholic Charities of Louisville.

Jordan said it takes up to two years for refugees to complete an extensive vetting process, making it highly unlikely for any terrorists to slip through.