Slower but safer America

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge announced new port security initiatives and investments to provide increased international cooperation, greater use of technology, and additional funds for port security facility enhancements.

” Through information sharing with our international partners; several different levels of inspection; review of intelligence information on the crew, cargo and vessel long before they reach our shores; state-of-the-art technology; and, of course, vigilance at every turn, we are able to screen and board 100 percent of high-risk vessels coming into our ports,” said Secretary Ridge.

The measures further build on a range of enhancements directed by the President following September 11, 2001 and include the second phase of the Container Security Initiative (CSI), $170 million in port security grants, and $58 million in funding for Operation Safe Commerce. Secretary Ridge announced the Department’s commitment to enhancing security at America?s key ports and facilities though $170 million dollars in port security grants.

The Department of Homeland Security also provided $75 million in port security grants for specific projects from the 2003 supplemental budget. The Office for Domestic Preparedness to cover recent infrastructure security protective measures, security enhancements, training, exercises, equipment, planning, and information sharing will distribute the funds.