U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke (NY-11), a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, released the following statement in opposition to the proposed cut in funding of the Homeland Security budget by the Bush Administration.

 

“Reducing the funding for those on whom we rely during a crisis, is just further evidence that this Administration is out of touch.  Funding cuts like these directly impact us all, though we may not realize it until disaster strikes. If implemented, these cuts will negatively affect the government’s ability to respond to disasters in the future. These drastic cuts will force the Department of Homeland Security to eliminate crucial programs such as emergency management, transit security, and port security – all of which are crucial to the New York City area. I look forward to joining my colleagues in collectively opposing these cuts as we continue to move this country in a New Direction.”

 

According to the Associated Press, the Department of Homeland Security requested $3.2 billion to provide to cities and states to fund police, fire and rescue departments’ counterterrorism programs. The administration is proposing to cut more than half of the department’s request to just $1.4 billion.

 

Congresswoman Clarke represents New York’s 11^th Congressional District located in central Brooklyn.

 

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