Federalizing the air cargo screening process is a drastic and short sighted solution that would further erode our proven risk-based inspection strategy. We need to find flexible, common-sense solutions to meeting the new mandates that don’t totally disregard the important role that risk-based security plays in our national security model.
Given backscatter technology’s proven track record in detecting potential threats, why has TSA chosen not to deploy it at U.S. airports, along side millimeter wave – thereby introducing competition to the procurement process and the “random factor” that TSA talks so much about. Simply put – because it didn’t focus group well enough for TSA.
Rather than trying to do “everything” about “everything” Washington would be better served by focusing on developing core competencies that would make it and keep it as a “player” in the cyber-world.
This week, Thomas Frank of USA Today reported on the decision of DHS’ Office of SAFETY Act Implementation (OSAI) to award the NFL SAFETY Act Certification. To see mention of the SAFETY Act in USA Today was a great and positive surprise. After spending several years as the lead technical evaluator to DHS for the SAFETY Act where one of my duties was “outreach,” it was a thrill to finally see a major newspaper give it the attention it deserves.
Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano declared last week she has no intention of “militarizing the border.” This statement runs against here actions as governor in Arizona when she not called out the state guard, but also declared a “state of emergency.”
Passenger imaging technology is breakthrough technology that can better detect concealed items. It is another step in the right direction to raise the bar on security. Good for Secretary Napolitano. She recognizes security is the mission, while still keeping privacy and public education concerns in the forefront.
The Government Accountability Office report on the Department of Homeland Security’s 287(g) program was the equivalent of a gang-banger drive-by shooting. The House Homeland Security Committee used the report to hold a hearing for brow beating the department’s program which facilitates cooperation between Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and state and local law enforcement on immigration-related criminal and terrorism investigations (as well as working with prisons and jails to ensure convicted felony aliens are deported).
The President has made an excellent choice in nominating Craig Fugate to be the next FEMA Administrator. Knowing Craig Fugate and seeing him in action, it is clear that he will make a superb FEMA administrator. The FEMA workforce will enjoy his leadership. Congress will appreciate his candor and business-like approach to emergency management. DHS will benefit from his willingness to be a team player. And most of all, those Americans who are imperiled will be ably assisted by a FEMA that is lead by a talented and tested emergency manager.
FEMA has had a topsy-turvy history. Set-up by Jimmy Carter. Bill Clinton’s play thing. Transferred to Homeland Security after 9/11. Victim of Katrina. What’s next?
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