Daniel Donovan

I want to welcome our witnesses here today to discuss an issue that is important to our homeland security: Fostering a culture of preparedness.

What have we learned from the tragedies that we have recently had in Texas and in Florida?

We look toward the Federal Government to protect our Nation, to protect our interests overseas.

Securing our educational institutions and ensuring a safe, healthy, and productive learning environment for our kids is a priority for me.

No parent should drop off a child at school and fear for his or her safety.

We must fully fund these grant programs particularly in light of the evolving terrorist threat.

We should address the homeland budget in the same manner as the administration looks at the Defense budget.

I believe that the homeland budget is as important as the military budget because it defends us here in the homeland.

I am disappointed that the fiscal year 2019 budget once again proposes to cut vital grant programs.

It is because of them and the dedicated and tireless professionals of NYC Emergency Management that New York City has become a stronger, more resilient, and secure place.

New York City and all that it represents remains the No. 1 terrorist target in the world.