Barry Loudermilk: “Terrorism is no longer just a national issue as we deemed it after 9/11. The attacks of terrorism are affecting our…”

“Terrorism is no longer just a national issue as we deemed it after 9/11. The attacks of terrorism are affecting our local communities, and we must address those that are perpetrating these attacks, not just simply go after the tools that they choose to use. The Boston bombers chose to use a pressure cooker, a bomb. There have been attacks using knives, there have been attacks using hatchets, there have been attacks using cars. It is the perpetrator of these acts of violence that we must address. Earlier this year, the House passed a bill called the ALERT Act, a bill that I authored that is amplifying local efforts to root out terrorism, which, by the way, removes bureaucratic barriers and paves the way for the Federal Government to enhance State and local law enforcement's involvement in fighting the war on terrorism. By providing the tools and training needed to combat terrorism on multiple levels, the act provides for more efficient cooperation and coordination with State and local officials. Today, everyone has to play a part in protecting against terrorism, from the neighbor next door to the local law enforcement officer. While no legislation in itself will end the threat of terrorism against our Nation, we can better utilize the valuable resources found right within our communities.…”