Page 20 - Terrorist Attacks Upon News Today : Breaking News, Live Updates & Top Stories | Vimarsana

Given recent terrorist actions, such as the 2009 Fort Hood attack and the attempted Christmas Day bombing, the new guidelines are needed.

Congress should establish a National Counterterrorism Center withinthe Department of Homeland Security and define the NationalIntelligence Director's roles and responsibilities as overseeingthe entire intelligence community, not just counterterrorismefforts.

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005, calling on all 50 states to meet minimum security standards for issuing driver’s licenses and state IDs.

Simply strengthening the current "layered systems" approach to U.S.border security will not secure the border. Congress and theAdministration need to make key investments in infrastructure,organization, technology, and resources and then support theseefforts with appropriate legislation and policy reform.

Stability in Afghanistan and South Asia generally is tied toPakistani action to limit the Taliban's ability to operate inPakistan, peace efforts with India, exploration of regional tradeand investment opportunities, and a return to democratic politics.The U.S. should pursue these objectives to help Pakistan addressthe roots of violent extremism and contribute to greater regionalstability and peace.