Sen. Ted Cruz Rafael (Ted) Edward CruzLoeffler calls for hearing in wake of Netflix's 'Cuties' Health care in the crosshairs with new Trump Supreme Court list 'Parks and Rec' cast members hosting special reunion to raise money for Wisconsin Democrats MORE (R-Texas) is renewing his push to strip Americans who knowingly join ISIS or other terrorist groups of their citizenship.

"The Expatriate Terrorist Act will ensure that any American who forfeits their country to intentionally join [the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria] will have their citizenship stripped and won’t be able to use a U.S. passport to come back and murder American citizens," the Texas Republican said in a statement.

ADVERTISEMENT



Cruz reintroduced the legislation on Tuesday, arguing it's a necessary step to combat "radical Islamic terror."

Under the legislation , an individual could have their U.S. citizenship revoked if they pledge allegiance to, work for or serve in the military of a group or government designated as a foreign terrorist organization; commit treason against or try to overthrow the U.S. government, or provide material support to a terrorist group.

ADVERTISEMENT

Cruz's bill would also let the secretary of State deny a passport to someone who joined or is trying to join a terrorist organization or is a "threat to the national security interest of the United States."

An individual would have 60 days to try to appeal the State Department's decision.

Cruz's renewal of his legislation comes as the White House is entangled in a legal battle over President Trump's executive order temporarily banning refugees and nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries.

Cruz previously floated that his legislation should be paired with cracking down on the acceptance of refugees from certain countries.