Rigell Supports Three Bills to Combat Terrorist Recruitment, Strengthen National Security

Press Release

Washington, D.C. -- This week Congressman Scott Rigell (VA-02) supported, and the House of Representatives passed, three bills to strengthen national security, both at home and abroad, and enhance emergency preparedness efforts. H.R. 4820, H.R. 4698, and H.R. 3583 would help counter ISIS' and other terrorist groups' recruitment of Americans, increase safety measures for international travel, and improve the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) efficiency.

"ISIS and other terrorist organizations pose an increasing threat to Americans and our national security," said Congressman Rigell, noting that ISIS has been tied to more than 80 terrorist plots or attacks against the West, one-third of which targeted the United States. "Congress and the President have no higher responsibility than to protect the American people, and the common-sense bills passed this week help meet that obligation."

Throughout the 114th Congress, the House has passed more than 60 bipartisan bills that seek to prevent terrorist attacks on the homeland, secure our borders, protect against cyber-attacks, ensure DHS runs efficiently, and shield the homeland from other international and domestic threats. Of those bills, 15 have already been signed into law.

Rigell added: "I am grateful to the House Homeland Security Committee for their diligent work to protect our nation."

More about the bills:

Combating Terrorist Recruitment Act of 2016 (H.R. 4820) -- Requires the Department of Homeland Security to utilize testimonials from former extremists and defectors to counter-message the Hollywood-style propaganda and recruitment efforts of terrorist groups like ISIS.

Securing Aviation from Foreign Entry Points and Guarding Airports Through Enhanced Security Act of 2016 (H.R. 4698) -- Directs the Transportation Security Administration to conduct a security assessment of all foreign airports that offer direct flights into the United States. The assessment would include an appraisal of the country's intelligence and threat mitigation capabilities, and an evaluation of foreign airports' passenger screening practices, capabilities, and capacity.

Promoting Resilience and Efficiency in Preparing for Attacks and Responding to Emergencies Act (H.R. 3583) -- Implements reforms to enhance accountability of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Office of Emergency Communications, and the Office of Health Affairs of the Department of Homeland Security. The PREPARE Act increases efficiency and coordination for preparedness improvements, while providing greater accountability for taxpayers.

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