Richard K. Armey: “This resolution simply authorizes the Speaker to appoint a Select Committee on Homeland Security consisting of five…”

“This resolution simply authorizes the Speaker to appoint a Select Committee on Homeland Security consisting of five House Republican Members and four House Democrat Members. The purpose of the select committee, which will have hearing authority and the same markup and reporting authority as standing committees, is to review the various recommendations from the standing committees of jurisdiction and report to the House one comprehensive bill that will create the Department of Homeland Security. This resolution carries an authorization for the select committee to utilize the services and resources of the staff of the House of Representatives and shall cease to exist after final disposition of the bill, including final disposition of any veto message on such a bill. The precedent for such a select committee is clear, and thanks to the bipartisan support I have received from the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Gephardt), the Democrat minority leader, I am confident that we can meet the President's deadline for enactment of this session.”