Homeland Security Act

The Homeland Security Act (HSA) was signed by President George W. Bush on November 25, 2002. The Homeland Security Act is most often referenced as the Homeland Security Act of 2002. The Homeland Security Act was drawn up to address the security concerns facing the United States of America after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The Homeland Security Act was the largest overhaul or reorganization of a government agency since 1947 and created the Department of Homeland Security. The goal of the Homeland Security Act was to centralize intelligence and law enforcement agencies and their functions to protect against and respond to the threat of terror. Under the Homeland Security Act, agencies that are responsible for the security of the Nation's borders, coastline and transportation systems came together under the umbrella of the Department of Homeland Security.

The provisions under the Homeland Security Act give new authority to the government for surveillance of individuals and groups, another puts limits on the kinds of information open to the public under the Freedom of Information Act.

Homeland Security became a household word following the attacks on 9/11. With the signing of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 interest in Homeland Security degrees and related education skyrocketed. People want to make a difference and protect the freedom U.S. citizens enjoy. Interest in Homeland Security jobs and related careers also went through the roof after 9/11. Many careers in homeland security and related fields have been created and are, in many cases, quite competitive to interview for.

There are arguments that criticize the provisions in the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and arguments that support the provisons. Though the actual document is a difficult read for those that are not familiar with reading government bills or acts, one wishing to gain further knowledge of the Homeland Security Act and form an opnion should read the 35 or so page document on their own. You can find a link to the Homeland Security Act of 2002 below.

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