On the recordFebruary 10, 2020
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 504, the DHS Field Engagement Accountability Act. This legislation was introduced by my friend and colleague from Nebraska, Representative Don Bacon. I applaud Congressman Bacon's initiative in sponsoring H.R. 504, which requires the Department of Homeland Security to: Develop an engagement strategy for the national network of fusion centers; Performance metrics for DHS personnel deployed to support State and local fusion centers; and, Training for fusion center personnel in the use of available DHS information-sharing systems. Additionally, the bill ensures that DHS component agencies are sharing appropriate information, through secure channels, with fusion center personnel. Representing a border State, I want to ensure that DHS agencies, including Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, have relevant criminal or terrorism information that is accessible to appropriate fusion center personnel. This will enhance coordination and situational awareness throughout the homeland. This bill has already passed the House of Representatives and was passed in the Senate with minor amendments. Passage of the bill today will send H.R. 504 to the President's desk. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to again support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.
