The Department of Homeland Security

The primary purpose of this project is to assess the newly created Department of Homeland Security. Federal government action began with President Bush's proposal for a new cabinet-level agency and would ultimately end with a congressional act. In the formulation process, congressional leaders should consider all research done on the subject for insight. This body of work includes pre-9/11 research namely the Commission on the Advancement of Federal Law Enforcement and the Hart-Rudman Commission - and research conducted after September 11th.

This study first addresses the differences between President Bush's proposal and the independent research conducted. Then these differences are reconciled to the congressional homeland security act. Finally, potential shortcomings of the new department are addressed in light of the independent research.