Congressman Carter, Chairman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, last week passed his first bill through the House by a vote of 245-182.  One major aspect of this bill is that it requires stringent oversight of DHS’s purchase of ammunition.

“There have been rumors that DHS is stocking up on ammo. I began investigating these worrisome claims as soon as I was alerted,” said Chairman Carter. “My investigation has concluded that the buying of 1.6 billion rounds over five years saves tax-payer money, but there is a serious need for oversight to make sure contracts stay within the realm of the needs of DHS.”

Chairman Carter demanded that there be more oversight of DHS’s purchases, so under Sec. 566 of H.R. 2217, DHS will be required to submit annually and quarterly reports to Congress that will include:

·         Mission requirements pertaining to ammunition

·         Details on the contracts DHS enters with ammunition manufacturers

·         The amount of ammunition DHS has in inventory

·         The amount of ammunition DHS has used

·         The amount of ammunition DHS has purchased

The Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Bill strengthens our security while cutting wasteful programs, and reduces government spending. This legislation is a decrease by $617.6 million below FY2013 enacted levels and a decrease of $34.9 million below the President’s request.

“We must be ever-vigilant on this subcommittee to ensure that the taxpayers’ money for homeland security is well-spent, that there are no oversteps of federal authority, or challenges to the civil rights of American citizens in the process.”