Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar was selected to serve as Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness & Response. The Subcommittee’s jurisdiction includes: interoperability and other emergency communications; first responders; the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); state and local preparedness and response; private sector preparedness; national response plans and planning; and public health preparedness.

“I’m deeply honored and humbled to have been chosen to serve as the Chairman of such an essential subcommittee,” said Congressman Cuellar. “The Emergency Communications, Preparedness & Response Subcommittee plays a crucial role in ensuring that our local police and fire departments have the tools they need to effective. I look forward to working with my committee colleagues to improve our nation’s ability to respond to emergency situations. Whether it’s local first responders or federal disaster response, Americans should have faith in their government’s ability to respond to unforeseen incidents.”

Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson said, “It gives me great pleasure to welcome Henry to the Committee on Homeland Security.  As one of Laredo’s favorite sons, Congressman Cuellar, came to Washington with a promise to keep his focus and priorities relevant to his constituents.  His leadership on the Committee, balancing privacy protections as much as homeland protections, will be an invaluable asset.”

Congressman Cuellar was also appointed to serve as a member of the Border, Maritime, and Global Counterterrorism Subcommittee. This Subcommittee oversees operations along the border, including the implementation and construction of a border fence.

“This Subcommittee assignment will help me to ensure that the views and opinions of those that live along the border are heard when Congress considers issues of border security,” noted Congressman Cuellar. “I will fight to protect the interests of our border communities, while working to enhance our nation’s safety and security.”

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development, and national security are his priorities.