Today, on February 15, 2012, Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers questioned Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano on the merits of the FY13 DHS Budget Request. Chairman Rogers addressed numerous Homeland Security funding measures, particularly the Administration’s questionable enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws and budgeting gimmicks proposed to support the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The President’s budget proposes to offset a portion of the TSA budget through an unauthorized doubling of the aviation security passenger fee to $5 per flight, a proposal Chairman Rogers and Congress have rejected year after year. Chairman Rogers cautioned Secretary Napolitano that this year would likely be no exception, and her budget contains a $317 million hole.

Click here to view a clip of the Congressman rejecting DHS Secretary Napolitano's budget gimmicks.

Click here to view a clip of the Congressman’s opening statement at today’s hearing on the Administration’s FY13 DHS Budget Proposal.

Click here to read the full opening statement. 

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov.

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