We certainly did not support the Assad regime.

Finding this balance is difficult and according to the director of the National Security Agency, General Keith Alexander, these Classified programs have been successful.

I am pleased to hear that the Office of Management and Budget is heading a 120-day review of the Federal clearance process.

I also want to thank the first responders for their heroic efforts.

In 12 years, we have made significant improvements in our preparedness capabilities--from planning to communications to operational coordination.

I am introducing the S.A.F.E. Schools Act, legislation that will require States applying for State Homeland Security Grant funds to certify that their schools have emergency plans that meet the standards recommended by the 2010 Commission…

However, every day we are reminded of the work still that needs to be done.

I am proud to say that New Jersey is one of the few States that includes these four criteria.

I encourage each member of the panel to review this report to determine whether your State meets each of the four criteria.

I would like to thank Chairwoman Brooks for holding this hearing, and giving the subcommittee the opportunity to learn more about the National state of preparedness.

The United States has attempted to make strides to diminish al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula's terror capabilities, but the threat from this organization remains.