Statement of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton on Announcement of Homeland Security Transit Funding for New York

February 1, 2008 -- Washington, DC — Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton issued the following statement on the announcement by Governor Eliot Spitzer and United States Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff of $151.2 million, a 50 percent increase, in federal transit funding for New York under the Transit Security Program.

“This is great news for New York. I am proud that the Democratic Congress boosted critical transit security funds, which will provide urgently needed aid to New York and other areas at highest threat of terrorist attack. I hope this is a sign that DHS and the Bush Administration recognizes the threat that the New York City region continues to face and the incredible strain they impose on our law enforcement agencies and first responders who must maintain constant vigilance.

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I commend Governor Spitzer and the Regional Transit Working Group for working with the Department of Homeland Security and all levels of government to provide security for our transit systems. A recent National Intelligence Estimate could not have been clearer: our homeland is under a ‘heightened threat environment’ and Al Qaeda is undeterred and determined to attack us here at home. On Monday, the President will release his budget, which will show whether today's investment is a one time deal or a real commitment on the part of the Bush Administration to meeting our homeland security needs. I urge the President to do the right thing for our homeland security and for the brave law enforcement and first responders who are our first line of defense.”

Source: Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton