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| House Passes Homeland Security Appropriations |
June 06, 2006 |
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"Our law enforcement professionals are at the scene of every disaster and crisis, and we have to give them the tools to succeed."
Rep. Heather Wilson
Wilson Supports Bill to Bolster Security and Response Efforts
Washington, DC – Congresswoman Heather Wilson today supported House passage 389-9 of the Fiscal Year 2007 Homeland Security Appropriations Act (H.R. 5441), which funds the operations of the Department of Homeland Security.
“Our overriding mission since September 11th, 2001, is to protect the American people,” Wilson said. “Staying one step ahead of those plotting to harm us is a monumental task that takes constant vigilance.”
“Our law enforcement professionals are at the scene of every disaster and crisis, and we have to give them the tools to succeed,” Wilson said.
Among other highlights, the legislation provides for 1,200 new Border Patrol agents, for a total of 13,580. It also bolsters port and transportation security, funds Air Marshals, boosts disaster response planning and provides for law enforcement training and equipment.
The bill totals $32.08 billion for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in fiscal year 2007, $1.8 billion above the fiscal year 2006 enacted levels.
Highlights of the Homeland Security Appropriations Act
First Responders: The bill provides $3.2 billion for first responders, including grants to high threat areas, firefighters, and emergency management. Since September 11th, 2001 (including funds in this bill) $37.4 billion has been provided to first responders – including terrorism prevention and preparedness, general law enforcement, firefighter assistance, airport security, seaport security, and public health preparedness.
Disaster Preparation: The bill provides a total of $6.5 billion for the Preparedness Directorate and FEMA to prepare for and respond to any form of disaster or terrorist attack, including catastrophe planning.
National Infrastructure: The bill enhances evaluation and protective measures around the nation’s infrastructure, and includes $500 million in funding for global nuclear detection, and $458 million for countermeasures to chemical, biological or other explosives.
Transportation Security: The bill continues efforts to enhance security for ports, rails, and aviation, with a focus on developing and installing next generation technologies to inspect cargo, baggage and passengers, totaling $6.3 billion for TSA and Federal Air Marshals, and providing for screening and training.
Law Enforcement: The bill includes $1.29 billion for the U.S. Secret Service to enhance protective and investigative capabilities, $46 million for the U.S. Fire Administration; and $252 million for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
Border Security: The bill provides $19.6 billion for border protection, immigration enforcement, and related activities, $1.6 billion over FY 2006, including 1,200 new Border Patrol agents, for a total of 13,580; adding 1,212 officers for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); $114 million for immigration verification systems; and funds for Coast Guard and airspace security.
Port Security: The bill provides $4.185 billion, $448 million over FY 2006, to secure our ports and inbound cargo, focusing on expanded screening and inspection equipment.
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