FDLE counterterrorism office is an investment in everyone’s safety
What was once so rare, almost nonexistent, has become painfully prevalent in recent years across our country. Acts of terrorism, both homegrown and internationally conceived in our schools and other public places, have ripped away the normalcy of our lives, leaving us reeling from grief and disbelief. Together we are even more motivated to proactively address these threats and prevent tragic events. Clearly, long-term, thoughtful decisions are required.
In Florida, we have a unique opportunity not afforded to other states. We alone get a chance, every 20 years, to review and revise our state’s constitution. This is the year, and this is our time, to consider a change to our foundational document so that safety and security remain as a long-term commitment for current and future generations.
I am honored to be among the 37 members of the Constitution Revision Commission, which is tasked with identifying, researching and bringing proposals forward for voters to consider during the 2018 election cycle.
The commission is nearing the end of this review process, but please know that we are still listening. You have many opportunities to voice your opinion. You may email, call or write. Visit the CRC’s website. We submit our report to the secretary of state on May 10. Then you, the voter, get the final say.
For your consideration, I am sponsoring, along with fellow commissioners Emery Gainey, Chris Nocco and Fred Karlinsky, a proposal that would establish an office of domestic security and counterterrorism within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, which would recognize the important coordination and ongoing efforts of local, regional and federal partners.
Essentially, our Proposal 26 would make a generational commitment to domestic security and counter-terrorism. It would help protect the inalienable right to enjoy and defend life and liberty and ensure domestic tranquility outlined in the state’s foundational document. By renaming the office and adding counterterrorism, the proposal would mirrors state law. But it also would elevate the status of this critical commitment, promote accountability and shine a light on its merit. Thus, demonstrating that we continue to take domestic security seriously, keeping us ever vigilant and less vulnerable to homegrown or international threats.
A Washington Post article reminds us the goal of terrorism is to inflict harm, spread fear and create economic damage. Florida’s growing population, popular tourist attractions and notable military bases make our state a prime target. Eleven of the 19 terrorists involved in the 9-11 attacks had spent considerable time here.
In the years since, we have witnessed mass shootings at an Orlando nightclub, the Fort Lauderdale airport and now Marjorie Stoneman Douglas in Parkland, where 17 precious lives were lost. At one time, five metro areas designated by the federal government as a high threat of terrorist activity were in Florida: Miami, Jacksonville, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Tampa. Two remain, Miami and Tampa, but whether the others are less vulnerable is debatable.
This change — establishing the Office of Domestic Security and Counterterrorism — would not create an additional Cabinet position or fiscal impact. It would acknowledge the importance of making a long-term commitment, at the highest level, to protect and defend our precious families and the rights provided under our state constitution.
Florida continues to attract people from all over the world as a beacon of opportunity and enjoyment. Our safety is undoubtedly one of the most critical investments we can make for our children, families and our future. I support Gov. Rick Scott’s recent recommendations to invest in school safety. A vibrant and promising future is ours.
Please support Proposal 26, a way we can all “do something” that can make a difference.