Publication

This article discusses the inclusion of state and local government representation in the US federal homeland security institutions and processes. The author argues that regardless of whether President Barack Obama decides to merge the Homeland Security Council with the National Security Council, he has the opportunity to create an effective, institutionalized way for states and localities to help shape the policies and programs they implement. The author warns of the problems of such an integration, but examines a range of options to institutionalize participation by states and localities and proposes criteria to help policymakers chose between them.