House Approves War Time Supplemental
Homeland Security Funding A Key Focus

April 14, 2003

WASHINGTON, DC - The House of Representatives approved a critical war time supplemental funding bill on Saturday, April 12. After a long negotiation with the Senate, the final package was approved in the House by a voice vote. Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas) was instrumental in securing key homeland security funding for high risk urban areas like Los Angeles.

"Homeland security is very much a part of the war effort," Dreier said. "As our men and women in uniform brought about victory for the Iraqi people, police and firemen have been working overtime here at home to protect us from terrorism. I'm very pleased we have been able to secure funding that targets the special needs of cities like Los Angeles. It's absolutely critical that the necessary funding get to those who need it as soon as it's available. Hopefully, this supplemental will establish a pattern of sending the funding where it's needed most."

Included in this Fiscal Year 2003 Supplemental Appropriations Bill is $2.23 billion for first responders, with $500 million for the protection of critical infrastructure, and $700 million going directly to high risk urban areas. Areas with significantly higher risk, like the Los Angeles region, incurs substantial costs in responding to the heightened alert status of our nation's homeland security infrastructure. In providing federal dollars for the remainder of this fiscal year, Congress recognizes the importance of getting these funds to the local level with an 80 percent pass through requirement, meaning 80 percent of the funding must go directly to cities. It is now up to state governments to equitably distribute these funds to municipal, county, and tribal governments in an expeditious manner.

Dreier noted that many states' existing homeland security agencies and funding structures do not provide for a fully equitable allocation to the specific local government entities that deliver primary first responder services to our communities. "My expectation is that our city government leaders will be integrally involved in the decision making and allocation process of these critical funds," he said. "I have worked closely with the League of California Cities, which represents California's 477 cities, to ensure that our local law enforcement, fire chiefs, and emergency responders are equipped with the tools they need to protect our communities from the threat of terrorism at home."