Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025

Floor Speech

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Mrs. KIM of California. Mr. Chair, I claim the time in opposition, even though I am not opposed to it.

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Mrs. KIM of California. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of this bipartisan amendment to provide much-needed resources to the FEMA Operations and Support account for the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System, or US&R.

This increase is offset by the management directorate for operations and support account.

US&R has been critical in disaster response efforts in the aftermath of the major wildfires, hurricanes, and tropical storms across the country, including in California.

We are reminded of the importance of this program as communities in our area face a scorching heat wave and a threat of devastating wildfires, and I am grateful to Orange County Fire Authority Chief Brian Fennessy's leadership as the Western representative for nine US&R task forces in our region.

Unfortunately, costs associated with operating the task forces have increased with higher labor and equipment costs and more deployments. My amendment ensures US&R's task forces are equipped with the tools needed to protect our communities.

Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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