|
Championing Threat-Based-Funding
In the Senate I have championed threat-based funding for homeland security that gives New York the resources it needs and deserves to protect its many high profile targets. This was one of the key recommendations of the bipartisan 9/11 Commission and other independent experts.
Shortly after the 9/11 attacks, I introduced the Homeland Security Block Grant Act to help communities in New York and across the country shoulder their new financial burdens. In 2003, I introduced the Domestic Defense Fund Act to ensure base level direct funding for our first responders, targeted funding to high threat areas like Washington and New York, and a new emergency reserve fund for times of heightened threat. Both measures were endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
Threat-based funding is a common-sense policy that puts our resources where they are most needed. But for years we have had to fight the efforts of the Bush Administration to shortchange New York and send resources to lower threat areas. In 2006, I succeeded in persuading the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to reverse massive cuts in funding to New York. In 2007 and 2008 I continued to press for the resources we need. I have personally made the case for threat-based funding to Secretary Chertoff and Secretary Ridge before him.
I have been pleased to welcome recent homeland security grants to New York, including to Buffalo, Albany, Long Island, and New York City. And in early 2008 I welcomed a 50 percent increase in funding for New York under the Transit Security Program. But despite some progress, the administration has allotted significantly less money to protect New York’s infrastructure and iconic landmarks than it did in 2005. New York’s first responders deserve all the support we can give them and I will continue to fight for the resources they need.
Back to homeland security overview >>
|
