Maxwell Frost: “Mr. Speaker, as we speak, the brave men and women of the U.S. military are halfway around the world waging and winning…”

“Mr. Speaker, as we speak, the brave men and women of the U.S. military are halfway around the world waging and winning the war on terrorism. Their courage and professionalism are a fitting tribute to the strength and unity of the United States of America. Meanwhile, here at home, domestic security has become our top priority, and thanks to the funding priorities in this conference report, America will now be better prepared to prevent, defend against, and recover from any future terrorist attacks. I am very pleased that the conference report more closely reflects Democratic priorities on homeland defense than was provided in the House-passed bill. Specifically, it provides more funding for nuclear, border, port, aviation and bioterrorism priorities. On bioterrorism alone, Democrats were able to secure $2.5 billion, $1 billion more than the President requested. While additional funding will be necessary to fully address other domestic security needs, this conference report is a good start.”