I have to amend my earlier posting in support of the fiscal 2007 DHS Appropriations Act.

Although the measure includes $3.4 billion for other first responder programs, the legislation dedicates no money for communications interoperability.

Originally, the Senate approved $3.1 billion for communications grants, but in "heated negotiations" over Labor Day the money was stripped from the bill.

For a detailed account of how first responders have been shortchanged once again click here.