Congressman Cuellar Co-Sponsors Bill To Implement 9-11 Commission Recommendations

[Press Release from Cong. Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo)]

Today, Congress passed HR 1, Implementing the 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act of 2007, which was co-sponsored by Congressman Henry Cuellar. The bill creates a safer America by enhancing homeland security, strengthening efforts to stop the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), and promoting strategies to reduce the appeal of extremism, particularly in Muslim parts of the world.

“I am proud to co-sponsor this bill because I believe it goes a long way in ensuring a safer America for future generations,” said Congressman Cuellar.

The bill increases the share of state homeland security grants provided on the basis of risk. Furthermore, it creates a stand-alone grant program, exclusively for first responders, for the implementation of inter-operable communications. HR 1 will also accelerate the installation of in-line explosive detection systems for checked baggage at all airports, and will mandate a strategic plan for deployment of explosive detection equipment at passenger checkpoints.

Congressman Cuellar noted that, “We must protect our ports at all times and with the highest level of security. To do this, responders must be equipped with the communications tools necessary to guard our homeland, and I will continue fighting to ensure that Congress does everything in its power to provide first responders with every available resource.”

The bill also includes numerous other provisions, such as:

·       Improving U.S. non-proliferation program, and creating a U.S. Coordinator for the Prevention of WMD Proliferation and Terrorism and a blue-ribbon commission to recommend further reforms;

·       Strengthening efforts to eliminate nuclear black-market networks;
·       Enhancing the International Arab and Muslim Youth Opportunity Fund, which provides assistance for expanding modern educational programs for Arab and other Muslim youth around the world;

·       Providing for the establishment of a Middle East foundation, to promote economic opportunities, education reform, human rights, and democratic processes in the countries of the Middle East.