Barletta Bill to Improve Homeland Security Fusion Centers Advances

Click here or on image to watch Rep. Barletta discuss H.R. 3598

WASHINGTON – Legislation authored by Congressman Lou Barletta, PA-11, to clarify and enhance the partnership between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the national network of fusion centers has been approved by the House Homeland Security Committee.  A fusion center is a collaborative effort of two or more agencies that share resources and information to improve their ability to detect, prevent, and respond to terrorist or criminal activity.  The bill, H.R. 3598, the Fusion Center Enhancement Act, now heads to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.  

“As a former mayor, I know the importance of sharing information between local, state, and federal agencies,” Barletta said.  “I have seen this problem firsthand, and know that more can be done to help our local law enforcement get the support they need from the federal government.  This bill is one small step to make the fusion centers a better resource for the people who know our communities the best, our local law enforcement officers.”

The bill improves fusion centers by: 

• Directing DHS to make sure its components are providing information and personnel to fusion centers to better cooperate with state and local officials. 
• Requiring DHS to coordinate with fusion centers and State Homeland Security Advisors in carrying out assigned responsibilities. 
• Requiring DHS to submit a report to Congress on its efforts to meet these requirements.

“Making sure that state and local law enforcement, fire, medical, and other emergency personnel have the necessary resources is a critical part of our homeland security strategy,” Barletta said.  “This includes better access to information and intelligence.  That’s what fusion centers are designed to accomplish.”