9/11 Resolution Warns of Security Cuts: $134 Million Less for High-Risk Cities’ Terror Prevention

This Congressional resolution is essentially a two-part message from the House: a formal remembrance of the September 11, 2001, attacks, paired with a sharp warning about the nation’s current security posture. It starts by honoring the victims and survivors, noting the tragic loss of life and the ongoing health crisis—nearly 7,000 deaths have been linked to Ground Zero illnesses since the attacks.

The Ongoing Health Toll from 9/11

The resolution doesn’t just focus on the day itself; it highlights the enduring impact on everyday people. It explicitly recognizes the thousands of Americans still suffering from health issues linked to being at the attack sites. This serves as a critical reminder that the cost of 9/11 is still being paid by first responders, cleanup crews, and residents who were just trying to live their lives near the disaster zones, underscoring the need for continued support for these health programs.

The Brain Drain at Homeland Security

Here’s where the resolution shifts from commemoration to critique. It expresses concern that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is losing experienced personnel who possess “vital knowledge” in counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and border security. Remember the 9/11 Commission’s finding that the government failed to “connect the dots?” This resolution suggests history could repeat itself if the people who know how to connect those dots—the seasoned analysts and experts—are leaving the agency. This is a direct shot at the operational effectiveness of DHS, arguing that the security infrastructure built after 9/11 is being weakened from the inside.

The Cut to City Security Budgets

Perhaps the most concrete concern raised is about funding. The resolution claims that cities consistently designated as top terrorist targets—like New York City and Washington, D.C.—have seen $134 million cut from their terrorism-prevention grants. These funds are used for things like extra police patrols, surveillance equipment, and specialized training that keep subways, airports, and major public spaces safe. For busy people living and working in these metropolitan areas, this isn’t abstract policy; it’s a reduction in the resources dedicated to preventing the next attack, raising the question of whether we are prioritizing security where it’s needed most.

Upholding the Mission

Ultimately, the resolution urges the U.S. Government to honor the memory of those lost on 9/11 by recommitting to the tough lessons learned and strongly supporting the core mission of the Department of Homeland Security. This is a broad call to action, but it signals that Congress is worried about mission drift and resource depletion. While this resolution doesn't implement any new law or funding, it puts the current administration on notice, demanding a renewed focus on preparedness and counterterrorism efforts that directly affect the safety and security of millions of Americans every day.