[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 16]
[House]
[Page 21836]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         MAKING AMERICANS SAFE

  (Mr. DeFAZIO asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. DeFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, the way Congress and the President could 
best commemorate the terrorist attack, the tragedy of 9/11, and the 
loss of thousands of innocent lives would be to ensure that we have 
done all in our power both here and abroad, that Americans are as safe 
as possible against another assault.
  Unfortunately, as a member of the Committee on Homeland Security and 
a senior member of the Subcommittee on Aviation, I can say with 
confidence that we have fallen far short of that mark. Significant 
portions of the Aviation Security Act have not been implemented. Our 
first responders, those who responded so selflessly on that tragic day, 
still lack basic resources and help from the Federal Government, even 
as Congress is considering the President's request for another $87 
billion for Iraq.
  On this day, Congress should resolve to remember by redoubling its 
efforts, avoiding dangerous distractions, and providing all the funds 
necessary so we can say with confidence, never again.

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