Doris Matsui: “in January, the Department of Homeland Security made significant changes to our homeland security effort. They announced…”

“in January, the Department of Homeland Security made significant changes to our homeland security effort. They announced the areas eligible for fiscal year 2006 UASI grants. For the first time, Sacramento and San Diego were not identified as high-risk areas. While Sacramento and San Diego did receive fiscal year 2006 funding, the new eligibility guidelines have put our funding for next year and beyond in jeopardy. Sacramento is the capital of the sixth largest economy in the world and home to dozens of critical Federal and State governmental buildings. Much of the State's water, electricity, and telecommunications systems are managed from Sacramento. Of considerable concern is an attack on Sacramento's dams and levees, not only because of potential loss of life and impact to Sacramento's families, but an economic impact as well. According to a Sacramento Bee analysis, the economic impact of a major flood in Sacramento would cost the region $35 billion. This is damage to homes, loss of jobs, and government revenues. The San Diego area contains the Nation's seventh largest city adjacent to a heavily trafficked international border, a busy port, and tourist attractions. Nor should it be overlooked that a number of naval and Marine bases are located in San Diego, including the largest naval base in the country. With fewer installations after four rounds of BRAC, an attack on even one could result in even greater impact.…”