Christopher Shays: “A year ago today, the 9/11 Commission released its report. This report outlined 41 recommendations to protect this…”

“A year ago today, the 9/11 Commission released its report. This report outlined 41 recommendations to protect this Nation from future terrorist attacks. It is crucial we ensure the implementation of these recommendations. The 9/11 Commission produced what I feel is a sacred document. Their conduct should bring pride to all Americans because they realized that their mission was larger than partisan politics and acted accordingly. They completed this undertaking with determination, clarity, and vision. On behalf of a grateful Nation, we pledge to continue to work to make their entire vision reality. Congress and the administration have made many significant changes over the years to improve the security of the homeland. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act signed by the President in December of 2004 was a critical step forward in reorganizing our intelligence community, creating a Director of National Intelligence with personnel and budgetary authority, creating in statute a National Counterterrorism Center, improving our transportation security, and making important immigration reforms. There are still challenges, however, that need to be met. The Privacy and Civil Liberties Board established by the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act, for example, should be operating and should be mandated with robust powers to oversee the government's adherence to the guidelines set forth by the 9/11 Commission.…”