Statement by the Honorable Michael Burgess, MD

A Review of Security Initiatives

March 18, 2005

Thank you Mr. Chairman, and thank you for having this important hearing.

At this time in American history, our national security has become the most important issue facing our nation. It is critical that we do everything within our power to ensure that our nuclear weapons are highly secured and protected. We cannot allow our national security to be compromised because of inadequate safeguards that are poorly implemented. The recent security incidents at the Los Alamos National Laboratory illustrate that changes must be made to guarantee the safety of weapons and top clearance material.

I share my colleagues’ deep concern with regards to the safety of nuclear sites in America and abroad. I look forward to the opportunity to review both the security status of nuclear weapon facilities and discuss security initiatives that can be implemented to better ensure that our nation is protected. I also hope that additional insight can be provided regarding the security matters at Los Alamos.

Again, Mr. Chairman, I thank you for this crucial hearing in which we can address some of these essential concerns regarding nuclear facilities and the security of our nation.