Nashville Standard

House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mark E. Green, MD delivered remarks in a markup session for legislation countering terrorism threats and the influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on U.S. soil. The session sought to address evolving terrorist activities, cyber intrusions linked to the CCP, and fentanyl smuggling issues.

Green emphasized, "Today’s markup reflects our bipartisan commitment to protecting Americans across our great nation from the rapidly evolving threats to our homeland and our way of life."

Acknowledging the Chinese Communist Party as a significant foreign threat within U.S. borders, Green noted, "We must dismantle this sinister effort by Beijing to undermine our sovereignty."

He cited Representative Pfluger's bill, H.R. 881, as critical to restricting funds to U.S. institutions maintaining ties with the CCP. The Committee also discussed several bipartisan bills addressing transnational repression operations by Beijing and the Iranian regime.

Green highlighted concerns about sophisticated cyberattacks on federal networks, again pointing toward China. He stated, "We must protect our cyber borders," emphasizing the need for coordination among federal agencies against the threats.

Furthermore, the CATCH Fentanyl Act, introduced by Representative Higgins, aims to pilot technology enhancements for detecting illicit substances at borders. Green also criticized the Biden-Harris administration's handling of border security, referencing concerns like the increase in special interest alien (SIA) encounters.

Addressing radicalized individuals and terrorism threats, Green mentioned Representative Luttrell’s pending bill to evaluate threats from individuals in Syria. Additionally, H.R. 1608, led by Representative Gimenez, focuses on vehicular terrorism risks.

Green stressed bipartisanship, urging support for Democratic colleagues’ measures and stating, "Together, we can fulfill our duty to protect Americans from growing threats to the homeland."