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Release Date: 05/22/03 00:00:00
May 22, 2003
For Immediate Release
The Department of Commerce's Technology Administration (TA) will begin working more closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under an agreement signed by the two agencies today. Under Secretary of Commerce for Technology Phillip J. Bond and Under Secretary for Science and Technology for the Department of Homeland Security Charles E. McQueary signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The MOU develops a formal working relationship with the DHS Science and Technology Directorate and the TA's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST research includes programs for the detection of chemical, biological and other explosive threats. NIST is also working to develop "interoperability" standards for first responders and is doing work on cybersecurity, radiation measurements, and biometrics, among other initiatives.
"This new agreement gives DHS greater access to the first class work being done by the scientists, technical experts and researchers at NIST," said Bond. "We will continue to work with the research community and the technology sector to ensure that we develop new, innovative solutions for protecting our homeland security."
"The President has made homeland security a clear priority throughout his Administration and this MOU allows the Department to play a significant and useful research and technology development role in supporting the DHS mission," Bond continued.
"This relationship is an opportunity for us to tap into the science and technology strengths and expertise that the Department of Commerce provides in the security and technical standards arena," said McQueary. "There is a clear synergy between our missions and we believe this agreement will enable us to better protect the security of our nation and its citizens."
"The MOU formalizes a collaboration that will serve both of our Federal agencies well. NIST has already been engaged in providing technical expertise in several important national homeland security priorities. DHS can continue to rely on NIST to assist industry through standards and measurements in bringing new homeland security technologies into the marketplace. I look forward to working closely with the DHS Science and Technology Directorate," said Arden Bement, NIST Director.
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