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| House Passes Homeland Security Appropriations |
September 29, 2006 |
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| Wilson Supports Bill to Bolster National Security; Says U.S. Must Remain Vigilant
Washington, DC – Congresswoman Heather Wilson today supported House passage 412-6 of the Fiscal Year 2007 Homeland Security Appropriations Act (H.R. 5441), which funds the operations of the Department of Homeland Security and specific New Mexico-based efforts.
“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.
New Mexico-related funding:
$25 million for NISAC (National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center) at Sandia and Los Alamos, an increase of $5 million above last year’s level and $8.98 million above the President’s request.
$275.25 million is approved for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), an increase of $4.6 million above the Senate level; $22 million is provided specifically for renovation and construction needs at FLETC’s Artesia, New Mexico training center.
$22 million for New Mexico Tech for participation as part of the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium.
$272.5 million for research, development and operations of the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, plus $30.5 million for management and administration.
Among other national 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 $34.8 billion for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in fiscal year 2007, an increase of $2.3 billion over the fiscal year 2006 enacted levels.
Highlights
First Responders: The bill provides $3.4 billion for first responders, including grants to high threat areas, firefighters, and emergency management. Since September 11th, 2001 (including funds in this bill) $37.6 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 $481 million in funding for global nuclear detection, and $496 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.
Border Security: The bill provides $21.3 billion for border protection, immigration enforcement, and related activities, $2.1 billion over FY 2006, including 1,500 new Border Patrol agents, for a total of 14,800; $135 million for immigration verification systems; and funds for Coast Guard and airspace security.
Port Security: The bill provides $4.34 billion, $600 million over FY 2006, to secure our ports and inbound cargo, focusing on expanded screening and inspection equipment.
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