More Call on Nixon to Block Syrian Refugees in Missouri

Dozens of Missouri lawmakers have joined calls for Gov. Jay Nixon to block Syrian refugees from settling in the state.

Six GOP U.S. House members representing Missouri, 20 Republican state senators and dozens of state representatives as of Tuesday have asked Nixon not to cooperate with relocation efforts.

The calls to block refugees come after deadly attacks in Paris. Those asking to stop Syrian refugees from settling in Missouri cite safety concerns.

The Democratic governor in a Monday statement called on the federal government to ensure strong safeguards. But he did not say he would pause refugee relocations as governors in a number of other states have pledged to do.

The executive director of the Missouri Immigrant and Refugee Advocates group says the state should welcome refugees fleeing violence.