Bill Nelson: “I rise to thank Chairman Hollings and ranking member McCain for agreeing to include in S. 1214, the Port and Maritime…”

“I rise to thank Chairman Hollings and ranking member McCain for agreeing to include in S. 1214, the Port and Maritime Security Act, a Coast Guard and Navy study to evaluate the merits of establishing a Center for Coastal and Maritime Security. The events of September 11 cruelly illustrated the challenges we face in providing comprehensive and reliable security for our homeland. There is no challenge more daunting than the integration of our Federal, State and Local law enforcement agencies and their coordinated efforts with our Armed Forces to protect our vast and complex maritime and industrial areas. My amendment directs the administration to seriously consider establishing an institution that can provide integrated and coordinated training for the organization, planning and execution of security systems necessary to protect our vulnerable ports and coasts from potential terrorist attacks. I am grateful for the inclusion of language directing this study because the U.S. Navy's Coastal Systems Station in Panama City, Florida is uniquely staffed with coastal security experts to help the Coast Guard conduct this assessment.”