Matheson Supports Stronger Anti-Terrorism Protections

Press Release

Matheson Supports Stronger Anti-Terrorism Protections

Congressman Jim Matheson today hailed the passage of legislation to implement the recommendations of an independent, bipartisan commission on steps America can take to protect against another terrorist attack like the one on September 11, 2001. The measure —"Improving America's Security Act of 2007" (HR 1)—passed the House by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 371-40. It passed the Senate 85-8.

"The unanimous report by the bipartisan 9-11 Commission takes a comprehensive look at our national security and provides numerous important recommendations. With the most recent National Intelligence Estimate warning us that Al-Qaeda has regrouped and strengthened, there is no better time to take action to protect our citizens," said Matheson.

Matheson said the 9-11 Commission submitted its report three years ago. Action on many of the recommendations, including enhanced port, rail and mass transit security, information sharing and first responder communications has lagged.

Matheson said one of the key provisions is requiring 100 percent scanning of U.S.-bound seaborne containers before they leave foreign ports -within five years. It strengthens programs designed to prevent terrorists from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. It also has provisions to strengthen intelligence and information sharing between local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

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