But industry groups argue that security backstops enacted in the 14 years since the Sept. 11 attacks are sufficient, and that overhauling the visa-waiver program would simply make it harder for law-abiding visitors to put the United States on their itineraries.

Though other reactions to the Paris attacks, including a House plan (HR 4038) to add new FBI certifications for potential Syrian and Iraqi asylum seekers, have largely divided the parties, changes to the visa program appear to have broad backing. That means the business community has a tough job ahead.

“We understand on a political level why Congress wants to do something — especially when the knock on Congress is that they don’t get much done,” said Jonathan Grella, the U.S. Travel Association’s executive vice president for public affairs. “There are plenty of ideas that don’t come at the cost of economic benefits.”