For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 26, 2002
Statement by the President
I commend the House of Representatives for acting quickly to pass
landmark legislation to create a Homeland Security Department. This
legislation represents the most extensive reorganization of the Federal
government since the 1940s. Our Nation needs a new department with
the overriding mission of protecting the American people from the
threats of terrorism.
This bill includes the major components of my proposal -- providing
for intelligence analysis and infrastructure protection, strengthening
our borders, improving the use of science and technology to counter
weapons of mass destruction, and enhancing our preparedness and
response capabilities.
The House bill also provides the Secretary of Homeland Security
managerial flexibility needed to build and maintain a department
capable of responding rapidly to the terrorist threats of the 21st
century.
The House has shown a strong commitment to improving the security
of the American people, and I urge the Senators to do the same before
they leave for the August recess.
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