| WASHINGTON,
D.C – September 11 was the worst attack and loss this country has ever
experienced on our own soil. Countless lives were lost and the nation
was confronted with a new reality, a harsh sense of our vulnerabilities.
It was the darkest single day this nation has faced. The one saving
grace, the one ray of hope that helped to combat the pain, suffering and
sadness of the nation was the heroism, leadership, and commitment displayed
by Americans who were determined to help.
Some
helped by giving their lives. And their stories will inspire us forever.
Others from across the country helped by giving. Americans made generous
donations to provide aid to victims of the terrorist attacks. Over
$1 billion was raised for relief efforts and aid to victims’ families in
the wake of September 11 from donations large and small made by the American
public.
Unfortunately,
however, some in our country demonstrated the shameful side of humanity
by attempting to illegally profit from the tragedy. Those individuals tried
to exploit the generosity demonstrated by so many through fraudulent solicitations
in which they claimed to be representing organizations benefiting the victims
or providing emergency response services. While those despicable
acts are already illegal, it is necessary for the Congress, on behalf of
our constituents, to send a clear message that such behavior will be subject
to even more severe penalties in the future.
Under
H.R. 346, the American Spirit Fraud Prevention Act, the maximum civil fines
for actions of fraud in attempt to profit from national emergencies, will
be doubled.
These
increased penalties will apply to all violations that occur within one
year of the time the president declares a disaster and all violations that
occur during — and up to one year after the expiration of — a presidential
emergency declared under the National Emergencies Act.
The
American public is caring and committed. We care for about the well-being
of our neighbors and we are committed to do what we can to ensure prosperity
and security for this nation. And we will not tolerate those who
undermine and abuse the American spirit. |
