| April 1, 2003 |
The House Appropriations Committee today approved legislation to fund the initial stages of military action in Iraq, continue the global war against terror, and strengthen homeland security. Representative Kay Granger (R-Fort Worth), a member of the committee, voted for the wartime spending bill and voiced her strong support for giving American troops all the resources they need to complete Operation Iraqi Freedom decisively.
"From fueling ships to replacing artillery to providing marines three squares a day, this bill is essential to winning the war," Granger said. "Let us be clear - this legislation represents only a down payment on the liberation and disarmament of Iraq. As our men and women continue their steady advance, Congress stands ready to support them at every step."
In addition to fully funding the President’s request for $62 billion for military activities, the wartime supplemental bill includes $4.2 billion for homeland security, $2.4 billion for humanitarian relief to the Iraqi people, and approximately $5 billion to help coalition partners in the region cope with the costs of supporting military action.
"Firemen, police officers, medical personnel, and other emergency responders are at the center of our domestic security strategy," remarked Granger, a member of the Homeland Security Committee. "We are also providing additional resources for safeguarding our ports and borders, protecting against bioterrorism, and investigating terrorist threats."
Granger also backed an amendment to the bill that provides assistance to the airline industry. The amendment, which passed the committee by a voice vote, helps airlines offset the costs of increased security since the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
In supporting the airline assistance package, Granger cited the experience of Fort Worth-based American Airlines. "The employees and management of American and other airlines have taken difficult steps to cut spending and stay solvent," Granger said. "Yet they still face challenging times ahead. Congress cannot allow soaring security costs and a conflict abroad to clip the wings of an industry so integral to the U.S. economy."
The wartime supplemental appropriations bill now goes to the House floor for consideration.