Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of Representative Strong's bill, H.R. 706, the DHS Biodetection Improvement Act. This legislation is essential in advancing the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to protect Americans from emerging biological threats. Specifically, it seeks to enhance biodetection capabilities within DHS by requiring the Secretary to assess how the Department can leverage the research and development of the Department of Energy's national laboratories. Biological threats, including deadly pathogens and bioterrorism agents, represent a constant and emerging danger to the public health and security of our Nation. However, the BioWatch program, which has been the cornerstone of our biodetection efforts, is now outdated. H.R. 706 takes a crucial step forward by requiring DHS to assess how the Department of Energy's national laboratories can play an even greater role in improving our biodetection capabilities. These labs are equipped with cutting-edge research and development capabilities that can help modernize our detection system. The national labs have the expertise and technologies necessary to enhance DHS' ability to detect, identify, and respond to biological threats much more effectively. Accessing this valuable research will enable DHS to modernize its biodetection tools and systems.…”