Implementing The 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act of 2007

IMPLEMENTING THE 9/11 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS ACT OF 2007 -- (Extensions of Remarks - January 12, 2007)

* Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1, the Implementing the 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act. The safety of our families, our communities and our country is the top priority of Americans and today, finally, it is the top priority of Congress.

* It is long past time to make the changes and investments necessary to improve our homeland security. The Commission submitted 41 recommendations in 2004. Since then, the Republican-controlled Congress has failed to take action. In fact, last year, the bipartisan 9/11 Commissioners gave Congress failing grades on implementing the Commission's recommendations.

* H.R. 1 will both enhance our homeland security and reduce the threat overseas. Implementing these recommendations is supported by 9/11 families and 62 percent of Americans.

* This bill includes several critical elements to improving American security. It will establish a grant program to improve interoperability and finally allow our first responders to communicate and share information with one another. It also ensures that taxpayer dollars are used wisely and requires that homeland security grants are awarded based on risk. H.R 1. will provide for screening of 100 percent of containers bound for the U.S. and establishes an improved system of screening the cargo and baggage on aircraft.

* Democrats have also included provisions to act proactively in improving stability around the world. This legislation will improve prevention of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and nuclear technology. It will also take a critical step in reducing the appeal of extremism by encouraging educational opportunities in Arab and Muslim countries.

* H.R 1. will change Congress' failing grade to an ``A' from the 9/11 Commission. This legislation is a comprehensive effort to enhance our security and to promote stability and understanding around the world. 9/11 Commissioner Lee Hamilton said that if H.R. 1 passes, America will be safer. I urge my colleagues to join me in making this so.

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