[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 75 (Monday, June 10, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S5282]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               AMERICA'S COMMITMENT AGAINST BIOTERRORISM

  Mr. FRIST. Madam President, our vulnerability to a bioterrorist 
attack was highlighted by the events that unfolded last October, when 
anthrax took the lives of innocent Americans and put thousands more in 
jeopardy. How we address our vulnerabilities and respond to 
bioterrorism will be radically improved as a result of new legislation 
signed by President Bush. The greatest tool that terrorists have in 
their arsenal is to play on America's vulnerabilities and fears. This 
legislation makes great strides to significantly improve our ability to 
respond to bioterrorist threats. Yet it is critical that we provide the 
appropriate information so that families can prepare and protect 
themselves in the event of a potential attack. Information is power, 
and by better preparing ourselves, we can avoid being paralyzed by 
fear.
  Many news organizations have already begun to do their part by 
providing the necessary information for communities to feel safe. Good 
Housekeeping, which is read by thousands of readers each month, is a 
good example. In its April edition, Good Housekeeping answered the 
questions readers often have about bioterrorism, gave suggestions 
families could use to protect and prepare themselves, and provided 
information on what Congress is doing to lessen our vulnerability to 
bioterrorist attack. The magazine went a step further by providing a 
form readers could fill out urging Congress to act quickly to address 
bioterrorism. I was pleased that thousands of readers did respond with 
their views on this issue and the importance of passing legislation 
that would keep American families safe.
  Last fall's anthrax attacks changed the way America looked at 
bioterrorism. Overnight, the fear of bioterrorism moved from a remote 
possibility, to a reality for which we must be prepared. The 
bioterrorism bill, which will soon be signed into law, will greatly 
improve our ability to respond to a biological threat, equipping 
communities with the tools they need to strengthen our local health 
centers and educate those first responders, the doctors, nurses and 
emergency personnel on the front lines. But information for the general 
public is also key to improving our readiness. I commend the many news 
organizations that have recognized this fact and continue to get 
Americans the information they need to feel safe and secure. The unique 
nature of terrorism requires all of us to work together. While the 
events of September 11 and the subsequent anthrax attacks have changed 
the world we live in, coming together to meet a common challenge 
remains the American way.

                          ____________________