On Nov. 19, the 9/11 Families for a Secure America (FSA) announced their endorsement of consolidating legislative jurisdiction in a permanent Homeland Security Committee in the House of Representatives, a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.

“Never again do we want our fellow Americans to experience an extraordinary loss like the loss we felt on Sept. 11, 2001. To prevent this from happening again, families of the victims who lost their lives on 9/11 have organized a grassroots effort meant to inform the public, influence decision-makers, and actively pursue common-sense policies and worthy

causes that result in a safer, more secure America,” said the 9/11 FSA in a statement.

The House Homeland Security Committee is due to expire in January just as members of the Congress return to the nation’s capital. “The 9/11 Families for a Secure America believe that allowing the expiration of a committee of such importance would be a grave mistake –– one that could lead to severe consequences.

“While we endorse a permanent Homeland Security Committee, we also feel it is essential that it has the legislative and oversight jurisdiction it needs to carry forth a strong homeland security agenda in the years ahead. Without this jurisdiction, the Department of Homeland Security will lack the direction it needs to succeed in its mission to protect and defend America from terrorism.”