Chairman Thompson Issues Statement on Passage of Government Funding, COVID Relief Legislation
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on passage of the omnibus spending bill which includes coronavirus relief, funding for the Department of Homeland Security, and other homeland security legislation:
“I am glad that Congress was able to come together and deliver desperately needed coronavirus relief legislation to the American people before the end of the year. This relief package will make the country safer and stronger. While this overdue legislation is just the next step, and additional help will surely be needed next year, families should rest assured that assistance is on the way. I am hopeful that with the resources in this bill – and with new leadership coming next year – we will finally be able to crush the coronavirus and put the country back on a track to normalcy.”
“This legislation also increases funding for the Department of Homeland Security to not only help keep the nation secure, but – due to Democrats’ efforts – to ensure we are living up to our American values. This bill reduces funding for ICE’s detention and removal activities, while it increases funding for FEMA grants. These grants go directly to our states and localities for first responders and other security assistance. We are also doubling our investment in non-profit security grants – a program I helped stood up and have long championed – so our local churches, mosques, and synagogues can better secure their facilities. Also, given the recent cyberattacks on government systems, this legislation funds critical cyber resources.”
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