Degette Secures Convention Security Funding

Press Release

As the Congressional session winds down for the Holiday season, Chief Deputy Whip Diana DeGette (D-CO) today issued the following statement regarding the Consolidated Appropriations Act that includes $100 million in security funding for the 2008 Democratic and Republican National Conventions; Denver and St. Paul will be allocated $50 million each.

"From the minute Denver was awarded the 2008 Democratic National Convention, I have worked hard to secure the necessary security funds from the federal government. Having spoken with Speaker Pelosi and other House Democratic Leaders regularly, I have stressed how important these funds will be for the security and safety of the Denver-metro area. Today I am proud that my efforts have paid off.

"The security money included in this Act is critical to meet the security needs of both the Democratic and Republican conventions. As Denver and St. Paul are relatively small cities hosting such large events, getting enough funds early will help defray security costs so convention planners can secure important contracts. I am confident the House will pass this Act with bipartisan support."

The House of Representatives will consider the Consolidated Appropriations Act this evening. These funds will be used to reimburse state and local law enforcement for the costs associated with providing security at the 2008 National Conventions. Congresswomen DeGette and McCollum recently sent a letter to House and Appropriations Committee leadership requesting these funds.

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