    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [September 24, 2003]
    [Page 1197]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Congressional Passage of the Department of Homeland
    Security Appropriations Act, 2004
    September 24, 2003

        To win the war on terrorism, we are staying on the offensive abroad
    and protecting Americans at home. I applaud Congress for passing the
    Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill. These funds will
    help make Americans and their families even safer through stronger
    border enforcement, improved transportation security, and continued
    support for police, firefighters, and emergency-response teams. I look
    forward to signing this legislation.