(Warwick, R.I.)–Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) toured the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta yesterday. During the visit, Langevin, the ranking member of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Prevention of Nuclear and Biological Attack, received briefings on the CDC’s bioterrorism mission support of homeland security.

“The CDC is a critical component to our bioterrorism preparedness and response efforts,” said Langevin, after the visit concluded. “Congress must continue to partner with the CDC to determine where additional support and resources are needed. I look forward to working, as the Subcommittee’s ranking member to ensure we do whatever is necessary to protect our nation.”

Langevin received specific briefings on aerosolized Anthrax, the strategic national stockpile, Avian Flu and the contamination of the food supply by botulinum toxin. This was his first visit to the CDC.

“While public health preparedness has come a long way in the last four years, we can clearly do more to prevent or defend against the greatest bioterror risks,” said Langevin. Langevin will to work to ensure that funding continues for local and national training exercises, vaccine stockpiling, education and outreach to public health professionals and further research.

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