SIA opposes proposed DHS cuts

WASHINGTON, D.C.–The Security Industry Association today issued a statement opposing the House of Representatives’ proposed cuts in the fiscal year 2012 budget to Department of Homeland Security grant programs such as Urban Areas Security Initiative and the State Homeland Security Grant Program.

SIA joined with state and local government officials and organizations to send a letter to leaders of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee opposing the drastic cuts proposed by the House, according to a press release from SIA.

“The proposed cuts in FY 2012 appropriations legislation approved by the House would hamper the progress already made by prior federal homeland security expenditures and would jeopardize the ability of state and local governments to sustain existing programs,” the coalition letter states. “As a nation, we must avoid becoming complacent in the absence of major attacks since 9/11. During this 10th anniversary year, we encourage the Senate to preserve investments in prevention, preparedness, and response through DHS state and local programs.”

According to the press release, additional coalition members who joined SIA in sending the letter include the U.S. Conference of Mayors, National Association of Counties, National Association of State Chief Information Officers, American Association of Port Authorities and the American Public Transportation Association.