Congressman Sander Levin

Homeland Security

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In these times of heightened security, it is absolutely necessary that we provide adequate resources for our first responders.  In addition to providing the necessary funding, it is also important for this funding to be distributed in a manner that is fair to key border states like Michigan.

The 9/11 Commission, an independent commission created to make recommendations on the best ways to guard against future terrorist attacks, awarded the 2005 Congress and the Bush administration a grade of F for our failure to distribute homeland security funds on the basis of risk.  There no way to justify a first responder grant formula that awards Wyoming $37.94 per capita while Michigan--a key border State--receives just $7.87 per capita.

To address this vital issue as well as several other recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission, which had gone unanswered for two and a half years under the Republican Congress, the new Democratic Majority passed legislation enacting the remaining 9/11 Commission recommendations which was signed into law by President Bush on August 3rd, 2007.

This legislation greatly increases the amount of homeland security funding allocated based on risk, which directly benefits Michigan’s first responders because of the State’s heavy cross-border tourism and trade.  In addition, the bill further boosts security by requiring:

  • Screening of 100% of containers bound for the U.S. to be scanned within five years.
  • Screening of 100% of cargo on passenger aircraft within three years.
  • Investing $750 million annually in airport security, including $450 million for baggage screening.
  • Authorizing of new rail and mass transit security grants.
  • Department of Homeland Security establish preparedness standards for the private sector
  • Enhanced intelligence sharing between local law enforcement.