Hearing of the Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications Subcommittee of the House Homeland Security Committee - "Ensuring Effective Preparedness, Response, and Recovery for Events Impacting Health Security"

Statement

Let me start by saying that our thoughts and prayers continue to be with our friends in Japan as they search for survivors and recover from one of the greatest disasters in the nation's history.

I supported the President's decision to expeditiously assist with relief efforts by deploying the U.S. military, FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue teams, and other assets to the region.

This disaster, which caused damage to areas in Hawaii and in my home state of California, demonstrates how one emergency can spiral into others.

The affects of the earthquake and subsequent tsunami has now prompted a public health emergency, including concerns regarding the radiation seeping from nuclear reactors.

It is truly a tragedy of historic proportions and one that we must learn from in order to prepare here at home.

As the representative of the 37th district of California, I understand the potential affects earthquakes and tsunamis could have on our cities and critical infrastructure. My district includes the Port of Long Beach, which aside from being among the busiest in the nation, is also among the most susceptible to these types of disasters due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and San Andreas Fault. So I am committed to ensuring we are doing all we can to be prepared for any and every type of emergency given the current situation in Japan.

Therefore, today's hearing can provide us with a better understanding of how well DHS is prepared to respond to the health effects of both natural and man-made disasters.

As you know, the previous Administration's reorganization efforts created the Office of Health Affairs.

Since its founding, there have been concerns about how well OHA fits within the Department's enterprise.

Dr. Garza, during your confirmation hearing, you stated that OHA "is a young entity and in many ways, a work in progress".

I believe OHA needs to distinguish itself through effective leadership within DHS and amongst its federal partners in order to progress.

In this tough economic climate, it's important that each homeland security investment is dedicated to programs that are effective, efficient, and not duplicative.

Unfortunately, there have been programs within OHA's responsibilities that have not met those standards.

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