Porter Goss: “my concern with this amendment is quite simple: while well intentioned, I think it undermines our efforts in the war on…”

“my concern with this amendment is quite simple: while well intentioned, I think it undermines our efforts in the war on drugs. This amendment would end the ability of State law enforcement agencies to purchase equipment needed specifically for the war on drugs and the fight against terrorism. While the phrase ``war on drugs'' tends to bring to mind images of jungles in Latin America, the reality is that it is fought everyday on our streets, in our schoolyards and playgrounds. Vivid proof of this came a few years ago in my southwest Florida district--the regional office of the Drug Enforcement Agency was blown up by individuals involved in drug trafficking. Allowing the Defense Department to sell appropriate surplus equipment to law enforcement agencies ensures they have the tools they need to counter this very real threat. I encourage my colleagues to reject the Sanford amendment.”