Gov. Charlie Baker: No More Syrian Refugees in Massachusetts

Gov. Charlie Baker says he's opposed to allowing more Syrian refugees into Massachusetts in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in Paris.

The Republican said Monday the safety and security of the people of Massachusetts are his first priority and he would have to know a lot more about the federal government's refugee vetting process before allowing them into the state.

Democratic Boston Mayor Marty Walsh echoed Baker, saying he also wants to know more about how the federal government screens refugees.

Baker and Walsh said they have had no conversations with federal officials since the attacks.

Several governors are temporarily halting efforts to allow Syrian refugees into their states responding to heightened concerns that terrorists might use the refugees as cover to sneak across borders.

Maine Gov. Paul LePage also said Monday that Maine will not be accepting Syrian refugees, calling it "irresponsible" to do so because they could be a threat to the country's security.

New Hampshire Gov. Maggie Hassan said Monday that the U.S. should halt the acceptance of Syrian refugees until intelligence and defense officials can assure a strong process for vetting them.

Connecticut. Gov. Dannel Malloy said that Connecticut will continue to accept refugees from Syria who have gone through a rigorous screening.

Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin, meanwhile, told the Burlington Free Press on Monday that his state will take in Syrian refugees.

Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo said in September that she is open to sheltering Syrian refugees. She told WJAR-TV's Gene Valicenti on Monday that she won't make a decision now because there are no requests pending.