By taking FEMA out of DHS, Congress would turn a blind eye to the lessons learned on 9/11. Putting constituent politics over effective disaster response is a move America can ill-afford.
A major threat to America has been largely ignored by those who could prevent it-the U.S. Congress and the President. They should conduct research on the EMP threat, scenario planning, and thedevelopment of a National Recovery plan. An EMP attack on theUnited States could irreparably cripple the country, wreaking havocon the nation's electronic systems.
Cargo must be screened but it is impossible to screen 11.6 million containers every year without bringing the global economy to its knees. How to avoid the paralyzing cargo clog of the Department of Homeland Security's mandate for 100 percent cargo screening? Heritage Foundation homeland security policy analysts lay out a smart plan for risk-based screening which can keep the country safe and prosperous at the same time.
Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Janet Napolitanoshould ensure that her policy priorities recognize the importantrole international cooperation plays in U.S. security efforts, andshe should formalize the ability of DHS to promote internationalcooperation.