IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 7, 2007

Topeka – The Joint Committee on Kansas Security today urged the Kansas Legislature approve legislation supporting efforts to bring the proposed National Bio and Agro Defense Facility (NBAF) to Kansas.

“NBAF offers not only an incredible economic growth for our state but also the ability to defend our country from any attack,” said Chairman Mario Goico. “In today’s world we need to be prepared for potential attacks on our feedlots and fields.  The mission of NBAF will allow us to do that. Our committee fully supports bringing this facility to Kansas.”

Chairman Goico said the Joint Committee unanimously endorsed two bills and one concurrent resolution at their Monday meeting.  The recommended legislation includes:

HB 2303 - Creation of the Kansas national bio and agro defense facility interagency working group.

SB 0252  - Kansas state university, conveyance of land for national bio and agro-defense facility to department of homeland security.  

HB 5009 - Concurrent Resolution which pledges full support of the Kansas Legislature to do what ever is necessary for Kansas to be selected as the site for the National Bio and Agro Defense Facility.

The NBAF would replace the aging Plum Island facility, the federal government’s most secure location for animal disease research. The $451 million dollar facility will employ between 250 – 500 scientists, technicians and other support staff.  Sites in Leavenworth and Manhattan are among 18 sites in 12 states which have advanced to the next phase of the competitive process.

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