“The passage of this amendment signals a commitment to securing our nation at its most porous points,” said Langevin, ranking member on the Subcommittee on Prevention of Nuclear and Biological Attack.

“It is sound policy to strengthen national security by requiring the Secretary of Homeland Security to install radiation portal monitors at U.S. border crossings, airports, and seaports. This amendment will speed up the installation process by authorizing funding to insure deadlines are met and require the Department to report to Congress on the status of portal monitor installation.”

Twenty million containers arrive at U.S ports of entry annually, but the U.S. has yet to fully deploy a comprehensive system to screen those containers for radiological or nuclear materials. Langevin's amendment would require the Department of Homeland Security to install radiation portal monitors at all ports of entry within one year.

The Homeland Security Committee passed H.R. 4312 by voice vote this morning. The legislation may be considered by the full House of Representatives before the end of the year.

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