In an effort to secure and protect ports of entry throughout the country, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) included legislation in the fiscal year 2012 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations bill that would fund and expand DHS’s support to local and state fusion centers as well as work to secure funding for U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations. The legislation passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 231 to 188.

“Information sharing is a key component of successful law enforcement efforts. My legislation helps fusion centers stay one step ahead of the criminals,” Congressman Cuellar said. “Enhanced communications allow our agencies to work in tandem to prevent acts of terrorism and improve the security of this nation.”

The legislation calls for the expansion of DHS support to state and local fusion centers and asks DHS to not only better identify benefits derived from the fusion centers but to also present a list of needs to Congress with the fiscal year 2013 budget request.

“My legislation could allocate more than $639 million to U.S. Customs and Border Protection to be used for operational purposes,” Congressman Cuellar said. “This funding is needed in this time of increased security concerns when we need to protect our southwest border communities.”

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.