For Release: Tuesday, September 25, 2001
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO APPOINTED TO TASK FORCE ON HOMELAND SECURITY

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that he will serve on a new task force created by the Democratic Caucus to deal with homeland security. The group is being formed in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11.

"I am anxious to begin working with my colleagues on this vitally important issue," said Costello. "We currently have over 40 federal entities that are involved in some aspect of homeland security, and clear lines of communication do not exist. Congress must have a role in coordinating these activities and I look forward to having input in this process."

Costello believes his background in law enforcement and his work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency as a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee give him a unique perspective into the issues of homeland defense. He is currently the Ranking Democrat on the Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee.

"I have an understanding of investigative procedure and our current state of disaster preparedness. How we mesh these two important functions will be critical to our success in protecting the country from future terrorist attacks," stated Costello.

Costello has also been active on aviation security issues. He and other members of the House Aviation Subcommittee have introduced H.R. 2895, which would greatly expand the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Air Marshal Program, give the FAA or another Federal law enforcement agency control over the airport security screening system and limit airline passengers to one carry-on bag. Costello also believes cockpit doors should be secured to prevent entry by hijackers.

Testimony at a recent Aviation Subcommittee hearing revealed that strong measures are indeed necessary, especially in regard to security screening. Just last week, former Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms agents successfully boarded a plane concealing graphite knives. In addition, Department of Transportation Inspector General Kenneth M. Mead testified that when his office reviewed security procedures at Dulles International Airport it found that over 80% of security screeners there were not U.S. citizens, which adds to language barriers, and that screeners earn low-pay and have an extremely high turnover rate.

The Task Force on Homeland Security will begin meeting immediately. Costello expects the group to have recommendations ready for consideration by the House of Representatives within a week.

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