    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book II)]
    [November 19, 2002]
    [Page 2095]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Congressional Action on Homeland Security Legislation
    November 19, 2002

        The United States Congress has taken an historic and bold step
    forward to protect the American people by passing legislation to create
    the Department of Homeland Security. This landmark legislation, the most
    extensive reorganization of the Federal Government since the 1940s, will
    help our Nation meet the emerging threats of terrorism in the 21st
    century.
        This bill includes the major components of my proposal--providing
    for intelligence analysis and infrastructure protection, strengthening
    our borders, improving the use of science and technology to counter
    weapons of mass destruction, and creating a comprehensive response and
    recovery division.
        I commend the employees who will move into this new Department for
    their hard work and dedication to the war on terrorism. Setting up this
    new Department will take time, but I know we will meet the challenge
    together.
        I look forward to signing this important legislation.

    Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language
    version of this statement.