Bush signs $40 billion emergency aid package

President Bush signed into law Tuesday a $40 billion package to rebuild after last week's terrorist attacks. He also put his signature to the congressional resolution authorizing him to use military force against those responsible, the Associated Press reported.

"Our whole nation is unalterably committed to a direct, forceful and comprehensive response to these terrorist attacks and the scourge of terrorism directed against the United States," Bush said in a statement.

Bush also signed legislation expediting benefit payments to injured firefighters and police, or to the survivors of public safety officers killed in attacks at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon last Tuesday.

Bush thanked the House and Senate for giving him the power to wage war on terrorists and the prime suspect in these attacks, Osama bin Laden. The President promised to continue to consult with Congress as he plots the United States' military response.