[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 13 (Monday, March 31, 2003)]
[Pages 376-377]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Transmitting a 
Supplemental Budget Request To Support Military and Humanitarian 
Operations in Iraq and To Ensure Domestic Safety

March 25, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker:

    On October 16, 2002, I signed into law the ``Authorization for Use 
of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002'' (Public Law 107-
243). After condemning Saddam Hussein's continued possession of chemical 
and biological weapons, obstruction of inspections, and brutal 
repression of the Iraqi people, the Congress affirmed, ``Iraq poses a 
continuing threat to the national security of the United States and 
international peace and security of the Persian Gulf region and remains 
in material and unacceptable breach of its international obligations.''
    Subsequent to enactment of Public Law 107-243, the United Nations 
Security Council unanimously agreed to Resolution 1441 offering Iraq one 
final chance to disarm. After more than a decade of deceit and defiance, 
the regime, yet again, failed to ``fully and unconditionally'' comply. 
Iraq continues to pose a grave danger to global peace and security. The 
United States and our allies must seek to disarm Iraq and liberate the 
Iraqi people, and we will prevail.

[[Page 377]]

    Today, I submit a request for 2003 supplemental appropriations to 
support Department of Defense operations in Iraq and to strengthen the 
capabilities of our friends and allies who will share the burden of 
military and stabilization activities. Disarming and liberating Iraq is 
a first step. This request also provides immediate humanitarian relief, 
support for reconstruction, and the development of a free-market 
democracy in Iraq. Finally, the request will enhance the safety and 
well-being of Americans at home and abroad with investments managed by 
the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, and other 
agencies.
    This request reflects urgent and essential requirements. Much of the 
funding has been requested with flexible authorities. This flexibility 
will ensure requirements can be immediately addressed as they arise 
despite the unpredictable scope, duration, and intensity of operations. 
I ask the Congress to appropriate the funds as requested, and promptly 
send the bill to me for signature. I urge the Congress to refrain from 
attaching items not directly related to the emergency at hand.
    This supplemental request provides essential support to help 
guarantee the success and safety of our men and women in uniform, to 
help enhance the security of America and her citizens, and to establish 
an Iraqi nation, free, prospering and at peace with its neighbors.
     Sincerely,
                                                George W. Bush