Mike Levin: “twenty-six hours ago, when the House began this historic debate to create a new Homeland Security Department, it was my…”

“twenty-six hours ago, when the House began this historic debate to create a new Homeland Security Department, it was my hope and expectation that I would be able to support this legislation on final passage. In light of the terrorist strikes of September 11, and the continued threat, I strongly believe we need to reorganize the federal government to better address the dangers facing our nation. The bill as reported to the House by the Select Committee on Homeland Security fell short in a number of key areas. During the long amendment process of the last two days, I regret that the House voted down amendments that would have improved this bill. As a result, I cannot support this legislation at this time. I am particularly disappointed that the amendment offered by Representative Oberstar was rejected. This is not the time to extend the deadline for airports to install the explosive detection equipment that is critically needed to check airline passenger luggage for bombs. Last fall, this House voted overwhelmingly to have this equipment in place by the end of this year. There is no good reason to extend that deadline for another twelve months as this bill does. I hope that this and other flaws in the House bill be addressed in conference with the Senate. This is the largest reorganization of the Federal Government ever attempted. It concerns the security of our nation and the safety of every American. With so much at stake, we should get it right.”