Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, Senator Charles Schumer, Senator Kristen Gillibrand and members of the New York Congressional Delegation today announced more than $60 million in federal grants to support counterterrorism and emergency preparedness activities in counties across New York State. The funding, provided by the Department of Homeland Security through its State Homeland Security Program and Emergency Management Performance Grant, will assist counties in strengthening emergency response efforts. New York State receives more SHSP funding from DHS than any other state in the nation.
“New Yorkers know all too well the threats posed by terrorism and the critical value of ensuring first responders have the tools and resources they need to protect our communities,” Governor Cuomo said. “From enhanced training to purchasing equipment, this funding will further bolster counterterrorism efforts and help make this a stronger, safer and more secure New York.”
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner John Melville said,“These vital funds help our state’s counties prepare for and respond to a variety of disasters or emergencies that can occur at any time. As we all know, emergencies can develop quickly and these funds will help strengthen our communities to keep all New Yorkers safe and secure.”
The State Homeland Security Program
DHSES awards State Homeland Security Program funding to every county in the state, along with New York City. The State Homeland Security Program will provide more than $52 million in funding to prevent, protect against, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism and other catastrophic disasters. Federal guidelines require that a minimum of 25 percent of these funds be directed toward law enforcement terrorism prevention activities. This is critical given the current threat environment: in 2015, there were more plots in the homeland than the previous three years combined.
