Published May 2002 — Download PDF of the original newspaper column
Byrd's-Eye View By U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd Strengthening Our Defenses at Home
For many West Virginia residents, homeland security may seem like an obscure concept which does not bear upon their daily lives. Border security is an imminent concern for those states adjacent to Canada and Mexico. Port security is a critical issue for coastal states like Maryland, South Carolina, and Louisiana. But neither threat pertains directly to non-border, landlocked states like West Virginia. However, a surprisingly high number of danger zones exist across the country. Therefore, each state has a vital interest in homeland security. That is why I have worked to ensure that the investments the government makes in homeland security result in substantial improvements in the security of all Americans. In West Virginia, we have many areas that potential terrorists could perceive as vulnerable targets. For instance, chemical plants in Kanawha and Wood counties pose inviting opportunities for those who want to jeopardize lives. Attacks at the dams in Summers County or Nicholas County could cause significant loss of life and property. A plan to poison water systems anywhere in the state could endanger the health and lives of people who drink that water. These statements may seem alarmist. But after listening to hours of testimony from terrorism experts and Administration officials about vulnerabilities in our society, I believe these statements are simply pragmatic. We need to examine each vulnerability, assess potential threats and consequences, and take steps to protect against possible attacks. To that end, the Senate soon will consider legislation that I have written to fund numerous homeland security initiatives. This legislation addresses many of the critical vulnerabilities throughout the country, from borders to airports to nuclear laboratories and power plants. The legislation takes immediate steps to bolster local police and fire departments. It provides critical funding to train and equip health professionals to detect and treat cases of biological, chemical, or nuclear attack. It provides funds for the Postal Service to protect postal workers and to purchase equipment to make our mail safer. By approving this package, the Senate can take immediate steps to protect Americans and to try to prevent future tragedies like the one we witnessed last September. Despite West Virginia's distance from our nation's borders and ports, we should not close our eyes to the threat of terrorism. We should be actively involved in proactive, preventive efforts which can make a significant contribution to the safety of all West Virginians. May 22, 2002