Rep. Fossella Urges President Bush to Overrule Homeland Security Cuts for NYC

Fossella Writes President Bush That Funding Cuts Cannot Stand

[Washington, DC] – Congressman Vito Fossella (R-NY13) today called on President Bush to directly intervene on behalf of New York City and overrule the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to slash funding by $82 million.

In a letter to President Bush today, Fossella said the cuts would leave New York without critical homeland security dollars and the resources it needs for first responders.

“Since September 11th, our nation has waged a War on Terrorism to rid the world of those who seek to harm our nation and people,” Fossella said. “Working together, the Administration and Congress have made much progress to enhance our national security and eliminate vulnerabilities that allowed the attacks to occur. For instance, we created the Department of Homeland Security and the various grants programs to allow cities and states to strengthen their security to prevent future attacks.

“While New York remains grateful for your past support, the fact remains that the City’s needs are great,” Fossella said. “It is, therefore, shocking that the Department of Homeland Security announced yesterday that New York would receive $82 million less in Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) grants for Fiscal Year 2006. This decision has stunned many Americans and has the potential to undermine New York’s comprehensive efforts to fight terrorism.

“I know you share my belief that homeland security funding must be directed to those areas that are being targeted by terrorists for attack,” Fossella said. “If we are to continue doing everything in our power to keep New York and America safe, this decision cannot be allowed to stand. That is why I am writing today to respectfully urge you to intervene on behalf of New York City and its more than eight million residents to overrule the Department’s action.

“New York needs this funding to train, equip and supply our first responders with the resources and tools necessary to fight the War on Terrorism,” Fossella said. “Every dollar that is diverted from New York makes it more difficult to protect our city from terrorists. While Congress continues to abdicate its responsibilities by turning a blind eye to the unfair and inequitable funding formula, the Department of Homeland Security must use its discretion when possible to send resources where they are needed most. The Department’s announcement yesterday represents several steps backward in our ongoing efforts to direct resources to the cities that face the greatest threats.

“This matter is of such vital importance to the safety and security of New York that it is essential for the White House to intervene and ensure that additional resources are directed to the City,” Fossella said. “I want to thank you in advance for your consideration, and I stand ready to work with you, the Department of Homeland Security and Congress to send New York the funding it needs and deserves.”

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