What Is Home Land Security?

Homeland Security keeps us safe.

In 2002, former President George W. Bush made the Homeland Security Act a law. While the country was still in shock from the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the President was proposing a plan that he introduced only 11 days later on how he planned to keep the U.S. safe. This detailed plan became known as Homeland Security.

History

President George W. Bush introduced the Office of Homeland Security shortly after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He asked Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge to direct the program with the intention that the responsibility of the project would be to create and oversee a total national strategy to protect the United States from future terrorist attacks.

Office of Homeland Security

Homeland Security is divided into two major parts, and both carry different responsibilities. The Office of Homeland Security is the first part and is considered part of the Executive Office of the President. Its task is to work on a federal, state and local level to devise a strategy strong enough to secure the U.S. from current or future terrorist attacks and threats.

Homeland Security Council

The second part of Homeland Security is the Homeland Security Council, which is made up of members of the cabinet who had been responsible for homeland security issues in the past. Its task is to keep the President abreast of all security breaches.

Increased Budget

President George W. Bush significantly raised the budget for 2003 to support the efforts of Homeland Security. This multibillion-dollar raise in the budget was meant to cover bioterrorism-prevention efforts, first responders, technology and border security.

Significance

Securing all U.S. borders and all forms of transportation was essential in making sure that neither terrorists or their explosives could get into the U.S. Emergency Preparedness and Response would work to create an effective first response plan on a local level in the event of another terrorist attack or other emergency. Also, a team of scientists was appointed to identify, detect and thwart any chemical, biological or nuclear weapons. Finally, a team would be needed to gather and review all of this information on a daily basis.

References

• Brief History of Homeland Security