[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 177 (Friday, November 18, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2102]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


         EXTENSION OF PORT SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM THROUGH 2015

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                            HON. JANICE HAHN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 18, 2011

  Ms. HAHN. Mr. Speaker, each day, U.S. ports move both imports and 
exports totaling some $3.8 billion worth of goods through all 50 
States. Additionally, ports move 99.4 percent of overseas cargo volume 
by weight and generate $3.95 trillion in international trade. Given the 
importance of ports to our national economy, they must remain 
competitive and secure.
  Thus, we must remain vigilant and make sure we are giving States the 
resources necessary, so they can address the constant security threats 
that continue to loom at our Nation's ports. Whether its scanning 
foreign cargo for nuclear material or patrolling essential waterways, 
port security has become increasingly important as we expand into a 
21st century global economy. However, funding for these efforts 
continue to be a challenge as maritime security continue to expand and 
broaden with ever-evolving threats. Additionally, the economic downturn 
has forced cash-strapped States to cut funding for these vital security 
initiatives.
  That is why I am introducing the Port Security Grant Act, which will 
extend the Port Security Grant Program through 2015. The Port Security 
Grant Program addresses these problems by allowing States to receive 
the Federal funding they need in order to secure their vital ports of 
entry. The program provides up to $400 million for states to train 
personnel, expand port recovery and resiliency capabilities, and 
increase their capacity to detect, respond to, and recover from attacks 
involving explosive devices.
  However, Congress has failed to extend this vital program beyond 
2015. By not extending this program, we risk compromising the critical 
progress that has been made in port security and increasing the overall 
risk.
  By passing this bill, we will ensure that States continue to receive 
the funding they need in order to protect our Nation's gateways to the 
rest of the world.

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