Dhs Biodetection Improvement Act

Floor Speech

I rise today in support of Representative Strong's bill, H.R. 706, the DHS Biodetection Improvement Act.

This legislation is essential in advancing the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to protect Americans from emerging biological threats. Specifically, it seeks to enhance biodetection capabilities within DHS by requiring the Secretary to assess how the Department can leverage the research and development of the Department of Energy's national laboratories.

Biological threats, including deadly pathogens and bioterrorism agents, represent a constant and emerging danger to the public health and security of our Nation. However, the BioWatch program, which has been the cornerstone of our biodetection efforts, is now outdated.

H.R. 706 takes a crucial step forward by requiring DHS to assess how the Department of Energy's national laboratories can play an even greater role in improving our biodetection capabilities.

These labs are equipped with cutting-edge research and development capabilities that can help modernize our detection system. The national labs have the expertise and technologies necessary to enhance DHS' ability to detect, identify, and respond to biological threats much more effectively. Accessing this valuable research will enable DHS to modernize its biodetection tools and systems.

The bill also directs DHS to establish specific programs and technical requirements essential for advancing biodetection efforts, including vital research and development.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Homeland Security Secretary to submit to Congress a strategy for regular external evaluations to identify capability gaps and propose contingency plans if biodetection technologies fall short.

As security threats continue to evolve, it is important that Congress support improvements in biodetection capabilities.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

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Mr. CORREA.

Mr. Speaker, while DHS has made tremendous efforts to enhance its biodetection capabilities, we still have a long way to go. That is why it is important to pass this legislation, H.R.

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