Bill would prevent visas to countries that don’t take back immigrants

Rep. Ted Poe (R-Texas) has introduced a measure to block diplomatic visas to countries that deny repatriation of nationals in the U.S. convicted of crimes.

Poe said countries should face consequences for delaying or outright denying the return of nationals, even if they don’t want them back. The Texas Republican called it a “dangerous and deadly Achilles heel” in U.S. immigration law.

{mosads}”It is time that we offer a proper incentive to these uncooperative nations who freely take our money, and turn around and disrespect our laws,” Poe said in a statement. “This is a dangerous and deadly Achilles heel in our immigration system.”

Poe warned that foreign nationals convicted of crimes who remain in the U.S. could pose a threat to Americans.

“Keeping their criminals here is endangering our citizens,” Poe said.