Speech #1090139489

JOHN SWEENEY and others to ensure that multimission strategy be maintained. It is interesting to note that this agency has taken the plan that they have initiated and are bringing it forward at this time to make sure that this Congress is aware of what their new strategy is as a result of this realignment. I applaud CBP Airs efforts to achieve greater operation and cost efficiencies. however. a multimission CBP Air is vital to a comprehensive border security strategy. I am very pleased that this legislation details that this expectation. that 52. Pt. 7 9751 while CBP Air continues to secure our border. this important function cannot come at the expense of other critical Homeland Security missions. and I will continue to work with Chairman ROGERS to ensure that CBP Air follows through with the committees recommendations. Aside from these important border security and immigration enforcement functions. this legislation also addresses many other integral national security functions building upon the successes of recently passed legislation. this legislation provides funding over last years level to secure our ports and inbound cargo to prevent terrorists and criminals from exploiting the international commerce system. It provides funding for Coast Guard port and water way security operations. funding for CBP Air cargo inspection and trade operations needed to implement the Houses recently passed port security legislation. the funding needed to double the amount of cargo currently inspected screening 100 percent of cargo through the Automated Targeting System. and to establish minimum security standards for cargo containers Chairman HAL ROGERS has addressed these needs for our first responders by providing over $3 billion to ensure their readiness. Since September 11. including the funds in this bill almost $37.5 billion has been provided to first responders for terrorism prevention and preparedness. law enforcement fire fighter assistance. airport security. sea port security and public health preparedness. Finally. this legislation provides the oversight and Congressional guidance that the Department of Homeland Security needs to accomplish its mission effectively in areas such as port and container security. border security and immigration enforcement. first responder grants. air cargo and transportation security and disaster management preparation. Chairman ROGERS has included provisions to withhold funds to ensure that the Department of Homeland Security complies with these Congressional dictates and direction. I want to commend Chairman ROGERS and others on his committee. including ZACK WAMP.