WASHINGTON (Mar. 10, 2025) – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) and Congressman Troy Carter’s (D-LA) bipartisan legislation, the Securing the Cities Improvement Act, passed the House today. The bill would ensure the stability of DHS’ Securing the Cities (STC) program, helping cities maintain security capabilities against nuclear or radiological attacks.
This legislation provides the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) with detection equipment, training, exercise support, operational and technical subject matter expertise, and programmatic support to prepare for, protect against, and respond to high-consequence events and acts of terrorism. Furthermore, this legislation requires the DHS to submit a report to Congress two years after its enactment. The report itself must evaluate the performance of the cities participating in the STC program by using the metrics and milestones that DHS established.
“Louisiana provides our nation with critical energy production and industry,” said Congressman Higgins. “It is imperative that we continue to push forward programs and legislation that maintain security capabilities in the event of a terrorist threat. My work with Congressman Carter on this legislation reflects our shared dedication to Louisiana, and I thank him for his leadership.”
“My bill, which was just passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, will help cities build and maintain their security capabilities against nuclear, radiological, chemical, and biological threats, offering a more targeted and effective approach to national security preparedness and response. This legislation is critical for sustaining our preparedness and ensuring the safety of our nation against terrorism. It demonstrates our commitment to protecting our communities, including New Orleans and the surrounding areas, which are vital to our nation’s energy and economic security. Following the tragedy that took place on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day, this measure is more important than ever. I look forward to Senate passage and having this bill signed into law by the President,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02).
Read the legislation here.
