Are We Missing a Big Security Loophole?

Since 9/11 when we talk about security, for the most part, we focus our attention on our airplanes and airports but what about our ports? The port of Long Beach, Calif. the second busiest seaport in the Country is responsible for $100 billion in trade revenue and yet it’s top deputy, Commission President Jim Hankla, says he would give the Department of Homeland Security a “C-“or a “3 1/2 on a scale of 10,” for the lack of investment and increased security at his port. Make you nervous? Make you wonder? It should.

The second busiest seaport moved 7.3 million TEU (standard cargo containers) last year compared to 4 million containers in 1998 yet the infrastructure and funding has been abysmal. According to Hankla, he received $50 million in aid last year from the Department of Homeland Security. The department has a budget dedicated to Port Security funding in excess of $3 billion. What is wrong with that equation? Where is the money going? Should the two presidential candidates make a greater effort to secure our ports? How is it possible that the second largest seaport receives only $9.2 million from Homeland Security?

The statistics and honesty, with which Commission President Jim Hankla spoke about the progress or lack thereof, would surprise anyone. Take a look. Trust me! This is a subject that gets way too little press.