Deparment of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008

Floor Speech

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 -- (House of Representatives - May 09, 2007)

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Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Mr. Chairman, I regret that I could not be present today because of a family medical situation and I would like to submit this statement for the record in support of H.R. 1684, the Department of Homeland Security Authorization for Fiscal Year 2008.

Since its creation in 2003, the Department of Homeland Security has been one of the most mismanaged departments in the Federal Government. Failing to learn from the severe preparedness gaps exposed by the failed response to Hurricane Katrina, the Administration has proposed deep cuts to vital, core programs that assist local communities in responding to disasters. For example, the Administration requested a 52 percent funding cut for the State Homeland Security Grant Program and no funding for the Metropolitan Medical Response System, MMRS, program--the only Federal program that helps first responders, medical personnel, emergency rmnagement workers, business and other stakeholders develop effective, integrated capabilities to minimize causalities in the event of a terrorist attack using a weapon of mass destruction, natural disaster, or public health emergency. Eliminating funding for MMRS would have grave implications for 125 municipal authorities, in 43 States, including Connecticut.

In comparison, the Democratic-led House has put forth a bill that invests in securing the homeland and ensures accountability within the Department of Homeland Security. The bill authorizes $39.8 billion for the Department of Homeland Security for fiscal year 2008. This funding would provide our local communities with the tools to respond to terrorist attacks and natural disasters and improve the Government's ability to prevent terrorist attacks through greater information sharing. The bill also authorizes $63 million annually for the MMRS program through fiscal year 2011. Most importantly, the bill includes accountability provisions and provisions to strengthen and streamline management of the Department.

We must remain vigilant in protecting the American people and in preparing to respond to terrorist attacks, major disasters, and other emergencies. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the underlying bill.

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