David Thomas: “I rise in support of H.R. 5710 creating the Homeland Security Act of 2002. The protection that we seek today with the…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 5710 creating the Homeland Security Act of 2002. The protection that we seek today with the creation of the new Department is for our people, our property, and our economy. The U.S. Customs Service has been on the frontline supporting and defending our nation for more than 200 years, since its creation by the fifth Act of Congress as the first Federal agency of the new Republic. The many functions of Customs are as important today as they were at the start of our nation. Passage of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 is the right decision for the country. This country is only as safe and secure as the economy that supports it. Last year over $1 trillion in merchandise was imported into the country. That is indispensable fuel for our economy Customs collected over $20 billion of revenue. I am pleased the final bill keeps important elements recommended by the Ways and Means Committee in order to protect the trade functions of the Customs Service that are so vital to the strength of this land. In particular, the bill keeps Customs core revenue functions whole, which ensures that the many trade and enforcement functions will be carried out. Our bipartisan agreement in this bill: Transfers the Customs Service in its entirety to the Department of Homeland Security Division for Border and Transportation Security.”