Omnibus spending bill delivers increased homeland security funding

The U.S. House of Representatives recently advanced an omnibus spending bill, which includes the largest increase in defense funding in 15 years.

The bill, advanced with a vote of 256 to 167, includes funding to fight terrorism, secure borders, enhance first responder capabilities, improve aviation security technology and defend against cyber threats.

“The safety and security of Americans is on the line,” Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX), chair of the Homeland Security committee, said. “We must continue to provide the resources to best protect the American people from the constantly-changing landscape at home and abroad. This bill does just that.”

The bill includes $1.571 billion in border fence money, $507 million for the State Homeland Security Grant Program, $7.2 billion total for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), $380 million in grant money to the Election Assistance Commission, and $1.48 billion for the National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD) including $723 million for cybersecurity within NPPD.

“[This bill] begins construction of the President’s border wall, including funds for physical barriers along the Southwest border, technology, and levee wall in my home state of Texas,” McCaul said. “Additionally, we rebuild our military readiness around the globe, improve our cybersecurity capabilities, and provide funds for advanced Computed Tomography scanners to better secure our airports.”