LIEBERMAN COMMENTS ON ADMINISTRATION’S FY2010 BUDGET OVERVIEW FOR DHS

“The Administration’s budget summary is a helpful start for understanding its spending plans for Fiscal Year 2010, although it is a bit like reading the CliffsNotes version. Apparently, the homeland security budget will receive a modest increase, which is fitting given the continuing threats we face from terrorists and natural disasters. The Administration wisely will put more money towards closing major vulnerabilities in our cyber security, and I am pleased it recognizes the continuing need for vigilant security at the nation’s ports of entry and for rail and transit security. While it appears funding will remain constant for grants to state and local first responders, I am concerned that the overview neglects to mention FEMA’s response and recovery responsibilities, which we know from hard experience need buttressing. Bottom line, I will need to see a more detailed description of the Administration’s plans before I can be certain of the entirety of its intentions.”