Protecting Our Homeland: Senator Ritchie's Weekend Column

It’s hard to believe that just last month, we marked 15 years since the horrific September 11th attacks on America.  Since that time, our country has increased its focus on how we can stop terrorism and protect the citizens of our great nation.

Recently, I was proud to be named a member of a new task force that will help us continue those efforts.  Through the Senate’s newly established Senate Majority Task Force on Counterterrorism and Public Protection, my colleagues and I will analyze current counterterrorism and public protection measures that have been implemented since September 11, 2011.  In addition we will also be looking at how we can bolster and improve public safety from possible threats against our residents, our communities and our infrastructure. Information gathered will be used to make recommendations for future legislative and administrative actions that will promote the increased public safety of all New Yorkers.

Here in Central and Northern New York we are able to see firsthand efforts to protect our country through the sacrifices made by brave soldiers serving with the 10th Mountain Division.  The sacrifices made by our troops, as they work to safeguard our state and our nation from the threat of terrorism are tremendous.  However, despite their dedicated efforts and the work of countless law enforcement officials throughout our state, terrorism persists.

We have a responsibility to provide those who are working to protect us with the resources necessary to respond to and recover from the event of potential future attacks.   And, we have an obligation to make sure plans are in place that will allow all New Yorkers to live in peace and safety.  In the months to come, I am looking forward to joining with my colleagues on the Task Force to review our current public protection efforts, as well as examine what can be done better when it comes to safeguarding the people of our state from harm.