Promoting Vaccine Production at Pine Bluff Arsenal |
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| As America continues to wage our war against terrorism, we must be
prepared for new threats against our freedom. No doubt, in recent
weeks, all Americans have become aware of the potential for acts of bio-terrorism
as evidenced by the recent cases of anthrax in our nation’s capital and
other areas.
One of my priorities since taking office, and especially since the events of September 11th, has been to help facilitate the placement of a facility at the Pine Bluff Arsenal to produce vaccines against biological agents. In 1994, Pine Bluff Arsenal was named the best location in the country for a vaccine production facility. I believe it’s time for the Department of Defense to stop dragging their feet and put concrete plans in place to create this facility at the Arsenal. Doing so will not only improve the safety of American families, but also bring important jobs and opportunity to our area. Earlier this week, I visited the Pine Bluff Arsenal as well as the National Center for Toxicological Research located in Jefferson County to be updated on their heightened security procedures and to learn about their roles in our war against terrorism, particularly in the area of bio-terrorism. I am pleased with the security measures they have in place, and I am confident that the people of the area can feel safe. In the weeks and months ahead, my staff and I will continue to work with officials at the Arsenal, the Department of Defense and my colleagues in Congress to bring this important vaccine facility to the Pine Bluff Arsenal. |
