Senator Schauer offered the following concurrent resolution:

            Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 17.

            A concurrent resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to provide additional resources for state and local homeland security.

            Whereas, With the new realities occasioned by the September 11^th terrorist attacks and the prospect of further threats, it is clear to all Americans that our nation is truly facing a difficult challenge.  Strategies for providing for the security and safety of our citizens and resources are being reshaped and reevaluated.  The establishment of the federal Department of Homeland Security and similar offices at the state level is a most appropriate response to the dangers we face; and

            Whereas, In our nation's efforts to protect our people at home, we cannot lose sight of the fact that the war on terror has several fronts.  Among these, the immediate protections provided by local fire and police departments and public health facilities and personnel are critical components of homeland security.  In most instances, these are the people provide the first line of defense and response; and

            Whereas, So far, federal funding for local homeland security efforts is woefully inadequate.  In a state like Michigan, with its unique resources, characteristics, and location on the border and the Great Lakes, the security costs to local and state agencies are very high; and

            Whereas, Congress is considering legislation that would directly address the need for increased federal resources for local and state homeland security work.  One bill, S. 87, the Homeland Security Block Grant Act, would authorize the United States Secretary of Homeland Security to provide support where it is needed most.  Another measure, S. 466, the First Responders Partnership Grant Act, would provide financial assistance to local and state governments responding to terrorism.  Clearly, these types of approaches are badly needed by our states and local communities in the face of the threats before us; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), That we memorialize the Congress of the United States to provide additional resources for state and local homeland security; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.

R 0135 '03