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ATTACKS
More funding needed for protection
As President Bush lobbies for another tax cut, state and local governments are still looking for ways to fund their own war on terrorism.

But this isn’t just a matter of bad economics, although it forces struggling state and city governments to redirect funds that could be used to plug budget shortfalls. National security is at stake.

A study by the National Fire Protection Association found that only 11 percent of fire departments across the country are ready to handle the collapse of buildings with more than 50 occupants, according to The New York Times.

One federal study reported that only 13 percent of fire departments could handle a chemical or biological attack with 10 or more injuries, according the Times.

In several cities, purchases of protective suits that could protect officers from chemical attack are being delayed.

With the threat of another terrorist attack growing, this is unacceptable.

Bush proposed a $3.5 billion package a year ago to provide needed equipment to police and fire departments to respond to an attack. The money still hasn’t gotten there, largely because of partisan squabbling that should bring shame to both parties.

But it didn’t help that the president has shown little leadership on the issue.

The president needs to do more to help fund security to protect all instead of some.