Congressman Sander Levin

Homeland Security

In these times of heightened security and economic recession, it is essential that our first responders receive the resources they need to prepare for and respond to emergencies.

The 111th Congress and the Obama Administration are taking steps to ensure our borders are secure and our emergency responders have up-to-date technology and training. We passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act this February, giving approximately $3 billion to homeland security agencies and $4 billion to state and local law enforcement. This financial commitment provided much-needed resources to all aspects of our emergency and security programs.

Last Congress, we put the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission into law. This was a vital step in addressing key security needs. It also addressed earlier concerns over how homeland security funds are distributed, a formula that allowed Wyoming to receive $37.94 per capita while Michigan – a key border state – received just $7.87 per capita. The 2007 law finally fixed this unfair formula, greatly benefiting Michigan’s first responders.

While the Recovery Act funding and passage of the 9/11 recommendations will help to make our homeland security better, there is still much work to be done. Improved security is needed for our critical infrastructure, borders, and ports of entry. More resources are needed for our local and state police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective coordination within the Department of Homeland Security must be a priority now that the Department is fully established.

(Updated June 18, 2009)