Wednesday, November 5, 2003
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Wednesday, November 5, 2003 |
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Federal money tagged for Georgia’s counterterrorism, security programs Over $55 million in federal funding has been earmarked for Georgia’s counter-terrorism and homeland security programs, U.S. Senator Zell Miller announced yesterday. Congress approved funding for the grants in September as part of the fiscal year 2004 Homeland Security Appropriations Act. “In this post-Sept. 11 environment, the safety of our citizens, integrity of our infrastructure and security of key assets must remain front-and-center,” Miller said. “This funding for Georgia will go a long way to help support state and local law enforcement efforts to ensure the protection of communities and families across the state.” The state’s Homeland Security Program will receive $42.2 million to provide funds for homeland security and emergency operations planning, the purchase of specialized equipment to prevent, respond and mitigate incidents of terrorism and for costs associated with implementing state homeland security assessments and strategies. The equipment that can be purchased to counter possible attacks whether chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or explosive attacks. Also covered is equipment to prevent cyber attacks. Another $12.5 million is set aside to help law enforcement agencies share information to preempt terrorist attacks, reducing vulnerability of selected high value targets, identifying potential or developing threats, creating interoperable communications and intervention before terrorists can execute a threat. The funds can be used for planning, organization, training, exercises and equipment.
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