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(Mr. WOLF asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, while Congress was in recess over the last few weeks, the news was filled with reports on the bombing of the U.S. embassies in East Africa and subsequent retaliation strikes in Sudan and Afghanistan. Experts in the field of counterterrorism are warning about a coming long and difficult struggle between the U.S. and the forces of terrorism.

While much valuable work is being done by the intelligence community to combat terrorism, we need to take a close look at national terrorism policy. Today I will introduce, with other Members, the National Commission on Terrorism Act which will serve an important role in making sure we do everything possible to prevent future terrorist attacks.

This legislation would create a commission consisting of 15 distinguished experts in the field of terrorism including 3 Congressmen and 3 Senators. Five members appointed by the President, 5 by the Speaker, and 5 by the Senate majority leader in consultation with the minority. Over the course of 6 months, the Commission will be charged with developing a clear and effective strategy for protecting the American people.

Mr. Speaker, with the threat of terrorism on the rise and new threats of chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons looming on the horizon, I believe it is the right time for a comprehensive assessment of our Nation's terrorism policy.

I urge my colleagues to cosponsor the bill and hopefully we will pass it before we go home.

END