John Sarbanes: “A year has passed since the horrific attacks of September 11th, and as we debate the shape and form of a new Department…”

“A year has passed since the horrific attacks of September 11th, and as we debate the shape and form of a new Department of Homeland Security, the time has come for the Federal Government to fulfill its obligations to the National Capital Region and those dedicated to preserving its safety. I would urge my colleagues to support this important amendment. The proposed amendment would create within the Department of Homeland Security a National Capital Region Coordination Office. This office would have the responsibility of coordinating the response activities of the Federal, State, and local governments with that of the general public and the private sector. The District of Columbia is truly in a unique situation when it comes to Homeland Security.”