Issue Position: Keeping Communities Safe

Issue Position

Keeping Communities Safe

As a former Secretary of State of Texas, I understand how vitally important it is to provide our geographically diverse communities with the resources they need to meet the needs of keeping their communities safe.

In Congress, I serve on the House Homeland Security Committee and as the former Chairman to the Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response, I've worked directly with DHS, FEMA and local first responders to ensure our communities are adequately prepared to handle the evolving threats and challenges of the 21st Century.

In Texas and throughout the 28th Congressional District, I've worked hard with local police departments, sheriffs offices, CBP and ICE to ensure our communities have the resources they need. In fact, in 2009 I helped secure the following vital funds in the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Bill for 2010:

$10.1 billion for CBP, with almost $3.6 billion going to fully support the 20,163 Border Patrol agents, an increase of 6,000 since 2006 and 17,000 of these agents will be based on the Southern Border.
Provided $72.6 million for additional scanning systems for southbound lanes and checkpoints to look for and confiscate weapons and currency used in the drug trade.
An additional $145 million for the Western Hemispheric Travel Initiative for more technology and infrastructure at busy land ports of entry. This will help facilitate travel and security for all travelers right here in Laredo.
The bill also provides $5.7 billion for ICE to combat international trade in illicit drugs and weapons smuggling, including the expansion of Border Enforcement Security Task Forces.

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