One of the primary duties of Congress, and one of my top priorities, is to protect the security of all Americans at home and abroad. As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, and Ranking Member on its Subcommittee on Prevention of Nuclear and Biological Attack, I am working hard to ensure that Rhode Island and our entire nation are prepared to defend against any future act of terrorism or natural disaster.

Securing transportation and infrastructure:

Since the attacks of September 11th, I have been fighting for additional resources to keep our nations airports, railways, ports and critical infrastructure adequately protected. We have come a long way, but much remains to be done. I support mandatory screening of all cargo on passenger planes, increased funding for port and rail security and greater security at chemical and nuclear facilities.

Supporting first responders:

Our first responders are on the front lines every day, putting themselves at risk to keep our communities safe. They need our support and theyre not getting enough. I have repeatedly urged additional funding for police, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other responders to ensure they are properly staffed,
trained and equipped to perform their duties. I have worked to increase funding for the COPS and FIRE Grant programs, interoperable communications technology and public health preparedness. I will continue fighting to make sure we meet our obligations to all our first responders.

Intelligence and Information-Sharing:

Since being appointed to the Homeland Security Committee, I have repeatedly encouraged the Department of Homeland Security to improve its information-sharing processes and capabilities. America needs an intelligence community that works together in a coordinated and cooperative fashion. In addition, we must do a better job of ensuring that state and local officials have access to the timely and accurate information they need to make informed decisions and protect their communities. Finally, I want to make sure the federal government does a better job of keeping the public informed and involved.