Vito Fossella: “I rise in support of the Fossella-Crowley amendment, and I first want to thank Chairman Rogers for the tough task he has…”

“I rise in support of the Fossella-Crowley amendment, and I first want to thank Chairman Rogers for the tough task he has of putting together a good bill. My amendment would increase by $20 million the High Density Urban Area Program by transferring that same amount from the TSA Transportation Security Support appropriation of $523 million. The President's budget funded the High Density Urban Area Grant Program, also known as UASI grants, at $838 million. The underlying legislation funds it at $750 million, an $88 million shortfall. In short, Mr. Chairman, we are here in large part because of what happened on September 11. It happened in 2001 and it happened in New York City. So it is a grim reminder of what needs to be done in protecting our homeland. Just yesterday, a Pakistani man was convicted for plotting to plant a bomb at the Herald Square subway station in midtown Manhattan. It is clear that New York City, like other major cities, still remains exhibit A, and this grant program helps cities combat terrorism. New York City alone dedicates $200 million and 1,000 police officers to combat terrorism, and they are still $263 million short to do that for the people of New York City and those who tour. Mr. Chairman, I urge the adoption of this amendment.”