Former First Responder Named Homeland Security Subcommittee Chairman

Sept. 27, 2005
Rep. Dave Reichert (R-Wash.) has been appointed chairman for the House Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Science and Technology.

"As a former first responder, Dave Reichert brings real-life experience and dedication to the Committee that is unmatched," said House Homeland Security Chairman Peter T. King (R-N.Y.). "The devastation wrought by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita underscores the need for robust preparedness and response capabilities in the event of terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and other emergencies. No one is more qualified to lead this effort than Dave Reichert."

As subcommittee chairman, Reichert will lead the primary oversight panel for the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness (OSLGCP), Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) terrorism preparedness and response missions.

"I look forward to continuing the excellent work this subcommittee has done. aking sure the American people are safe is our top priority. Effectively preparing our first responders and emergency response systems takes care of all of our families, and I will work to see they continue to have the necessary resources," said Reichert.

Before he was elected to Congress, Reichert served as a police officer for 33 years, including 8 years as the King County, Washington sheriff. Reichert also serves as vice-chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, which oversees the U.S. Coast Guard.

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

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