Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) introduced the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Preparedness, Research, and Education Program Act of 2008, or the DHS PREP Act. The bill will establish a program of DHS fellowship awards focused solely on researching post-disaster response and recovery, whether the disasters are natural or man-made.  Congressman Green worked closely with Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) to ensure that this legislation would provide opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to participate in research programs at the Department of Homeland Security.

“The DHS PREP Act will provide opportunities for a diverse group of students to gain valuable experience at the Department of Homeland Security while enhancing our understanding of post-disaster recovery,” Rep. Green stated.  “It is often said that when we ignore the lessons of history, it is doomed to repeat itself.  We must extract as much knowledge as possible from the devastating aftermath of disasters such as Hurricane Katrina to ensure that our nation is better equipped to respond to future disasters and the mistakes of the past are not repeated.”

During the first year of the fellowship, participants will carry out research specifically focused on the rebuilding and recovery of the Gulf Coast.  The research conducted by fellowship participants will support the efforts of the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding at DHS and will be shared with Congress.

“I commend Congressman Green for introducing the DHS PREP Act.  The bill ensures that the Department develops homeland security experts that reflect the face of America and provides them with the opportunity to work on issues impacting the nation’s underserved communities,” stated Chairman Bennie G. Thompson.