Port security is key for trade industry growth

Re “Charting a better SoCal trade route,” Opinion, Dec. 20

The article by our four former governors regarding the growing trade industry neglected one key issue -- port security. With 42% of the nation’s goods moving through our port complex, we are America’s port, and we are not secure.

A terrorist wanting to cripple our economy could target our port. If it were shut down, our nation’s economy would take a hit of $2 billion a day.

Fourteen million containers enter or leave our port complex every year, and we only inspect 4%. The port, dockworkers, the surrounding communities and our nation are vulnerable.

Port security must be included in all plans for trade growth. We should push the federal government to provide funding to adequately protect commerce. A statewide bond measure is a good way to raise funds for infrastructure, but it must also include significant funding to secure our ports.

JANICE HAHN

Los Angeles

City Councilwoman