Homeland Security

DATE=3/20/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=RIDGE / SECURITY (S-O)

NUMBER=2-301019

BYLINE=DAN ROBINSON

DATELINE=CAPITOL HILL

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Secretary of Homeland Security, Tom Ridge, says authorities across the country have stepped up security since the government raised the terrorist threat level earlier this week. V-O-A's Dan Robinson reports from Capitol Hill where Mr. Ridge testified before a House (of Representatives) committee:

TEXT: Mr. Ridge says there have been no reports of incidents since U-S-led military action in Iraq began.

He says there is an additional layer of security since the threat level was increased to "orange" indicating a high risk of a terrorist attack:

/// RIDGE ACT ///

There are more random patrols at our ports, there is additional security at our airports, we are doing more random searches and deploying more resources at the border.

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The Bush administration says it will ask for more money for homeland security as part of a new budget request to pay for the war in Iraq. (Here is) Spokesman Ari Fleischer:

/// FLEISCHER ACT ///

There will indeed be money for homeland security in the supplemental appropriation bill that will be sent up to the Congress.

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Homeland security has been a hot political issue, with Democrats charging that the Republican administration has not budgeted enough money for cities and state governments. (signed)

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