Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2010

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2010 -- (House of Representatives - June 24, 2009)

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Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Chair, I rise in support of the Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2010. This bipartisan legislation funds the homeland security priorities of the country and strengthens our commitment to our state and local homeland security partners.

To help address the unique security needs of our high-risk urban areas, such as the Washington Capitol Region, the bill requests $887 million for Urban Area Security Initiative grants. These grants fund the security services and equipment needs of the nation's highest-threat, high-density areas and helps to ensure that our state and local leaders have the resources they need to protect these areas from terrorist attack.

In addition to appropriating funding to secure our passenger rail and air and sea ports, the bill provides funding for interoperable communications and for the nation's emergency operation centers. For our firefighters and other first responders, the bill adds $800 million for assistance grants for training and equipment. These funds will also be used to stem the tide of layoffs that are weakening our fire services and putting the public's safety at increased risk.

The House considers this bill just two days after the Washington Capitol Area experienced one of the worst passenger rail tragedies in our nation's history. We owe a debt of gratitude to the first responders who arrived from across the region to provide aid and comfort to the victims of this tragedy.

By funding these and other important programs, the Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2010, helps make our country more secure in times like these. I encourage my colleagues to join me in support of this vital piece of legislation.

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