Bill Clinton: “I rise today to offer a helping hand to communities in New York and around the country experiencing fiscal distress as…”

“I rise today to offer a helping hand to communities in New York and around the country experiencing fiscal distress as they struggle to respond to the heightened security needs of our country. Although the terrorists responsible for the September 11 attacks targeted two of our cities, communities thousands of miles away from Ground Zero now find themselves on the front lines in the war against terrorism. Since the attacks, towns and cities, both large and small, all across America have been overwhelmed by calls about potential biological or chemical attacks or threats to infrastructure. Along with this new responsibility comes a heavy burden that these communities should not be forced to shoulder alone. That is why today I am introducing legislation to provide relief to State and local governments in their efforts to improve emergency response and public safety locally. This Federal aid will ensure that local communities will not have to bear the burden of a strong homeland defense alone.”