WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) last evening cast her vote for the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, H.R. 2360, which provides funds for national defense and first responders for 2006.  Emerson is a member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee responsible for shaping the legislation, which passed nearly unanimously by a 424-1 margin.

 

“I think we have a bill that reflects the importance of fully funding our national commitment to homeland security,” Emerson said.  “Most important to me, this bill recognizes that preparedness and homeland security are just as important in rural areas as in urban areas.  Our transportation infrastructure, food supplies, and regional airports, for example, are spread throughout rural America.  Basic security measures here are fundamental to the safety of the American public from coast to coast.”

 

The bill provides nearly $31 billion for the Department of Homeland Security.  Also included in the legislation is a provision requiring the Department to submit a strategy aimed at reducing the number of undocumented immigrants to the U.S. by 10 percent every year.

 

“In addition to funding the Department of Homeland Security, this legislation improves U.S. border security by adding another 1,000 border patrol agents to the 1,500 additional agents Congress approved earlier this year.  The bill would fund new border security technology, such as unmanned aircraft for patrols and better border surveillance.  There is $2 billion set aside in this measure for grants to first responders nationwide so they can procure much-needed equipment and training.  It is a thorough approach to our national security priorities,” Emerson said.