One of the most important issues facing our nation is the security and safety of American families. I voted for the safety of Long Islanders and all Americans.

Last year, the 9/11 Commission gave Congress and the Bush Administration a number of poor grades on implementing their recommendations. Today, Congress responded, and voted to make our nation safer.

Once signed into law, New York will see greater homeland security funding. No longer will cities and states with minimal risk receive the bulk of our anti-terrorism funding.

The legislation imposes new standards on cargo screening for both our commercial airlines and our ports. Over the next five years, we will achieve 100 percent screening on all cargo coming in through our ports, and will screen all cargo on commercial airlines over the next three years. Congress voted on measures to prevent terrorists from acquiring weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and to reduce the appeal of extremism.

It is a great day for American families. Congress has taken great steps forward in protecting our homeland and will continue to do so throughout the 110th Congress.