Statement on the FY2008 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill

Bill contains large spending increase and restricts border security measures

"This afternoon, I voted against the fiscal year 2008 appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  Congress must be responsible stewards of the people’s money and, while I strongly support DHS’ mission, no agency is immune from fiscal discipline—not even the Department of Homeland Security.  This bill increases DHS’ budget by 14% from fiscal year 2007, $2.1 billion more than requested by the administration and coming just weeks after Congress allocated more than $1 billion in unrequested funds for the agency as part of an emergency supplemental appropriations bill.  Additionally, this legislation contains language that restricts our ability to swiftly and aggressively secure our borders.  I hope a final agreement with the Senate can be reached that contains a more responsible level of funding and allows border security efforts to move forward without excessive bureaucracy."