Number: RL31751
Title: Homeland Security: Department Organization and ManagementImplementation Phase
Authors: Harold C. Relyea, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: Overseeing the implementation of the legislation mandating the new Department of Homeland Security, and possibly refining it and making some technical modifications, is within the purview of the 108th Congress. Some legislators, for example, want to eliminate provisions protecting manufacturers from liability lawsuits, broaden the criteria for the creation of university-based centers for homeland security, and make the department subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The departments charter also contains apparently contradictory provisions, such as those concerning the appointment of an officer for civil rights and civil liberties. Other implementation issues include Senate confirmation of presidential nominees for department leadership positions, creation of a complete budget for the new department, and assessing the various reports to Congress required of the new department.
Pages: 49
Date: January 3, 2005