On the recordFebruary 13, 2015
Here we go again. It appears that my colleagues on the other side have short memories and do not remember the consequences that led to a backlash from the American people when they shut down the Federal Government in the last Congress. Republicans continue to play politics with the Department of Homeland Security funding by insisting that any funding bill overturn the President's executive actions on immigration. If the Republicans fail to pass a DHS funding bill, the consequences will be severe. One direct consequence is that there will be no funding of new nondisaster grants to local and State governments, law enforcement, fire departments, and other emergency responders. As ranking member on the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications, I understand how critically important these grants are to safeguarding our communities. Protecting the Homeland Security Grant Program is critical to ensuring that our cities, transportation systems, and first responders have the capabilities to prepare for and to respond in times of disaster. Mr. Speaker, simply put, Republicans should stop putting politics ahead of the safety of the American people and join with Democrats to fund the Department of Homeland Security. ____________________
