2227 Rayburn HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-4361
Fax: (202) 225-6001
As a representative from New York City, which is perhaps the number one target for terrorists, Congressman Serrano understands the importance of a Department of Homeland Security that is competent and capable of protecting citizens from potential acts of terrorism.
As a representative from New York City, which is perhaps the number one target for terrorists, Congressman Serrano understands the importance of a Department of Homeland Security that is competent and capable of protecting citizens from potential acts of terrorism. However, he also recognizes the equal importance of ensuring that the rights and liberties of U.S. citizens and of immigrants are not trampled upon in the process of providing security.
In recent years Congressman Serrano has fought for New York to receive higher Homeland Security grant allocations and pushed for these allocations to be made on the basis of risk, arguing that distribution of funds of this importance should never be influenced by politics.
Congressman Serrano feels strongly that the Department of Homeland Security needs to differentiate between its immigration responsibilities and its security responsibilities. He believes that first priority should be given to keeping dangerous criminals and terrorists out of the country and catching them when they are here, not to trying to keep out and catch people who are coming to the United States to work towards a better life.
Furthermore, Congressman Serrano vehemently opposed the building of a wall along the southern border, arguing that technology has afforded us more efficient ways of securing the border, while a wall only serves to send a negative message.
Congressman Serrano’s commitment to ensuring that the federal government provides security to the nation without infringing the rights of citizens or mistreating immigrants will continue to shape his agenda in the area of Homeland Security.