Washington, D.C.,
Apr 7 -
Knowing of your interest in
our nation’s port security, I want to provide you an update from Washington on this
important issue.
A post 9/11 world demands increased
security at our nation’s borders, airports, and ports.The gateways to our great nation, these
places of entry are prime outlets for terrorists to break through our defenses.We must have security measures in place to
protect Americans from another horrific attack.
Our ports have been somewhat
of a neglected stepchild in recent efforts to bolster border and airport
security.A recent failed attempt by a United Arab Emirates owned company to take over
management of several U.S.
ports brought to light several problems with our port security such as cargo
screening and inspections, and employee background checks.
As such, I joined my
colleagues on the Homeland Security Committee, Congressman Dan Lungren (R-CA)
and Congresswoman Jane Harman (D-CA), as an original cosponsor of H.R. 4954,
the Security and Accountability for Every
(SAFE) Port Act.This legislation
will require the Department of Homeland Security to conduct 100% radiation
screening of cargo containers, check port employees against terrorist watch
lists, and engage in thorough security assessments of foreign ports shipping to
the United States.Additionally, the bill requires joint
operations centers at seaports and expands tracking and protection of cargo
traveling to our shores. These
provisions will make great strides in protecting America’s ports.
The Homeland Security
Committee has already held one hearing and the bill and should vote to report
it out of committee on April 26th.From there, the full House of Representatives will most likely consider
the bill.I look forward to its
immediate passage and am pleased at the swift consideration of this important
legislation.Congress cannot afford to leave
any part of our land and maritime borders vulnerable.Rest assured I will continue to work
diligently on port security issues to keep Americans safe.
Veterans
