PORTLAND POLICE CHIEF MICHAEL CHITWOOD TO TESTIFY AT HEARINGS RE: HOMELAND SECURITY CHAIRED BY COLLINS

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Senate Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Susan Collins (R-ME) and Ranking Member Joe Lieberman (D-CT) today announced that on Wednesday, April 9, 2003, the committee will begin a series of hearings on homeland security at which Portland Police Chief Michael Chitwood will testify.

This hearing will focus on how effectively the federal government is assisting local fire and police agencies in preparing to respond to a biological, chemical or nuclear attack. "The needs of our states and first responders vary widely and are as unique as the communities they serve," Collins said. "We must make sure that federal assistance is sufficiently flexible to meet these diverse needs."

WHAT: "Investing in Homeland Security: Challenges on the Front Line"

WHERE: Room SD-342, Dirksen Senate Office Building

WITNESSES: Chief Ed Plaugher, Arlington County Fire Department; Chief Jeffrey Horvath, Dover (DE) Police Department; Chief Michael J. Chitwood, Portland (ME) Police Department; Chauncey Bowers, Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technician, Prince Georges County Fire Department.