Security and Accountability for Every Port Act
SECURITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY FOR EVERY PORT ACT -- (House of Representatives - May 04, 2006)
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the opportunity to enter into a colloquy with the chairman of the Homeland Security Committee.
Chairman KING, I support your efforts to enhance security at our Nation's seaports. The Port of Wilmington in my home State of Delaware is among our Nation's busiest terminals, and this legislation truly is a comprehensive approach for improving port security. I commend your determination in taking on this challenge.
Unfortunately, Mr. Chairman, we still have not had success in developing a comparable strategy for securing our nation's rail systems. In the wake of attacks on rail lines in London and Madrid, it is clear that terrorist organizations are intent on disrupting surface transportation and mass transit systems around the world.
Despite these continuing threats, we have not made adequate progress in developing a comprehensive national rail security plan. The Federal efforts to bolster rail security have been sporadic and unfocused, while funding for rail and transit security grants in the annual Homeland Security Appropriations bill have remained stagnant.
Since the 2001 terrorist attacks, our government's transportation security efforts have consistently been described as ``fighting the last war.'' Clearly, Congress must change course and get a few steps ahead, rather than constantly reacting to incidents and attacks once they have already occurred. We are very lucky that an attack on rail systems has not taken place in this country, and we now have a great opportunity to be proactive and pass real rail security legislation before it is too late.
I have introduced legislation to begin the process of addressing rail security in this country, and I know we share an interest in fixing this extremely inconsistent and flawed system.
I would appreciate the chairman's thoughts on this.
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman, reclaiming my time, I thank the gentleman from New York for his comments. I appreciate his consideration of these very important and timely concerns and obviously share his determination to pass effective rail security legislation.
Since becoming chairman, the gentleman from New York has demonstrated strong support for surface transportation security; and I look forward to working with him on this matter.
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT
http://thomas.loc.gov/