FY 08 Budget Priorities: Protecting the Nation from Dangerous Goods

The Department is working to improve security of cargo coming into our ports--including enhancing domestic and overseas container scanning. The Department is dedicating funding to improve technology and reduce costs to the BioWatch program as part of the comprehensive strategy for countering terrorism.

Progress Protecting the Nation from Dangerous Goods

Over the last year, we have made important progress toward the goal.

• Expanded screening of overseas cargo at foreign ports.
• Boosted radiation screening of containers at home, and invested in next-generation, forward-looking technology.
• Broadened partnerships with private sector shippers and operators.
• Scanned 90% of containers arriving at U.S. ports of entry for radiation.

FY08 Budget Priorities to Keep Dangerous Goods Out of the Country

• $178 million for radiation portal monitors.
• $15 million in additional funding to screen U.S. bound containers from foreign ports—using risk assessments, data,  and technology—under the Secure Freight Initiative.
• $47.4 million to accelerate research and development to build capabilities across multiple research, development, and operations program areas.