Text of Senator Schumer's Letter to George W. Bush President of the United States

Dear Mr. President,

I write to respectfully urge you to have the federal government reimburse New York City for its expanded security costs in the advent of war with Iraq. The city's heightened security plan, Operation Atlas, will patrol bridges, tunnels, government buildings, and houses of worship and cost the city $5 million a week.

I also request that the federal Department of Defense patrol the skies over New York City with combat aircraft and for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to restrict airspace over Manhattan. I understand that these patrols are expensive, but the price we paid on September 11 was high as well, and the price we could pay if round-the-clock patrols cease could be far greater.

I also urge you to reimburse New York City and other localities for the overtime costs that are being incurred as a result of the stepped-up security measures being put in place in case of war. One price for all our security and precaution is New York's Finest being forced to work almost literally non-stop. They should be paid accordingly for those duties, and I hope you agree that the federal government should make sure the New York Police Department is adequately equipped and supported to do so.

As you know, New York City is the American target most mentioned in intercepted communications. For that reason, New York City needs a first-rate security plan that is air-tight, sophisticated, and leaves no stone turned. Such increased measures cost a great deal at a time when our city's fiscal state could not be more dire.

I know that you and I want to do everything possible to secure every part of America. New York is a target that represents all of America, and the federal government ought to step in and cover the bill to keep it safe.

Sincerely,
Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator