U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks’ Statement on His Appointment to the Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing

U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks’ Statement on His Appointment to the Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 25, 2015, the House Committee on Financial Services voted unanimously to establish its Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing. Congressman Gregory Meeks, a senior member of the committee, was one of nine Democrats appointed to the Task Force, and the only New York City representative out of 21 appointees. Rep. Meeks released the following statement regarding his appointment to the Task Force:

“Over a decade ago, we witnessed one of the most devastating attacks on our homeland and my city. Since then, we have enhanced our abilities to choke off terrorist financing around the globe. However, global threats continue to emerge and we should continue to respond in an aggressive and vigorous way.

“The Financial Service Committee’s Terrorism Financing Task Force will investigate current practices, and examine policy proposals relating to terrorism financing issues, including the ever evolving problem of money laundering. These issues are very important to my city, having witnessed firsthand the atrocities of terrorism, while also being the financial capital of the world with a high concentration of international banks.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Taskforce, and seeking a more effective and collaborative approach with financial institutions investing billions of dollars to boost their capacity against terrorism financing and anti-money laundering.”

In addition to his role on the Financial Services Committee, Rep. Meeks is also a senior member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia and Emerging Threats. His dual role on these two committees with complimentary jurisdiction on terrorism and anti-money laundering, highlights his distinct position to help steer the deliberations as Congress seeks more comprehensive and effective approaches against terrorism financing.