Albany, N.Y. – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced more than $292 million in grant funding to support critical infrastructure protection, anti-terrorism programs, and core emergency preparedness and response functions in counties across the state. Approved by the federal Department of Homeland Security, the funding is administered through a variety of grant programs that include the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP), the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) and the Port Security Grant Program (PSGP).

“From extreme weather events to acts of terrorism, New York’s first responders and law enforcement personnel play a vital role in keeping our communities safe,” Governor Cuomo said. “This funding supports a variety of programs that ensure our bravest men and women are prepared for any emergency, and I am proud to be working with our federal partners to build a stronger and safer New York State.”

DHSES Commissioner Jerome M. Hauer Ph.D., MHS said, “These federal funds are very important to supporting and sustaining the first response capabilities throughout New York State, particularly in the metropolitan New York City region. DHSES is keenly aware of the valuable role the various local municipalities and their first response personnel play in ensuring our State is safe and secure. We will ensure that these funds are allocated according to the federal guidelines and that the greatest needs are met in every corner of New York State.”

The DHS funding through these programs includes:

· $178 million from the federal Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) program to the metropolitan New York City region (including Suffolk, Nassau and Westchester Counties).
· $76 million from the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) to DHSES, which manages these programs in close coordination with local stakeholders statewide.
· $18.1 million to the Metropolitan Transit Authority under the Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP)
· $13.7 million in Port Security Grant (PSGP) funds, including:

o $5.7 million to NYPD
o $2.8 million to FDNY
o $990,000 to NYC DOT

· $2.9 million to the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey under the Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP)
· $2.2 million to not-for-profit organizations under the UASI Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP)
· $1.3 million to Operation Stonegarden for border security coordination and operations

Congresswoman Nita Lowey said, “New York’s law enforcement and first responders are second to none, and these federal resources help them to secure our communities, bolster anti-terrorism programs, and enhance preparedness and response capabilities. As the Ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, I have made it a priority to ensure robust and effective homeland security grant programs like the State Homeland Security Grant Program and the Urban Areas Security Initiative. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to give our law enforcement and first responders the tools to protect our region.”

Congressman Jerrold Nadler said, “New York is one of our world’s greatest cities and, unfortunately, remains a prime target for the twisted imaginations of murderous terrorists. It is essential that our security personnel and other first responders have the funding and security infrastructure that they need. These Homeland Security grants will help ensure that New Yorkers are able to live in safety and security, and that we are best prepared whatever emergencies we may face moving forward.”

Congressman Peter King said, “As the top target of international terrorism, New York’s security is essential. These funds will go a long way to bolstering our defense and preparedness.”

Congressman Gregory Meeks said, “I fully support these federal grants that ensure our first responders have the assets necessary to address a crisis on a moment’s notice. The increased security these grants provide the 5th Congressional District, from urban areas to JFK, helps ensure that our communities continue to be among of the safest in the world. I applaud Governor Andrew Cuomo and Secretary of Homeland Security, Jeh Johnson, for their commitment to protecting our neighborhoods, streets, rails, and ports.”

Congressman Steve Israel said, “As New Yorkers, we know all too well how important it is to monitor and react to security threats to keep us safe. That’s why I was pleased to lead in advocating federal funding for Homeland Security grants, which I know will go a long way in protecting New Yorkers and providing our local law enforcement and first responders with the resources they need.”

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke said, “As a member of the House committee on Homeland Security, I’m happy to hear that NYS has once again been granted Homeland Security Funding to maintain and manage New York states safety and security. I commend the Cuomo administration for their efforts in securing these grants from the Department of Homeland Security, which will allow us to protect the Families and Communities of New York State, our critical infrastructure and transportation facilities from the threat of terrorism. At a moment when terrorism threatens the security of people in many parts of the world, the most densely populated metropolitan area in the United States must remain vigilant in protecting its people.”

Congresswoman Grace Meng said, “Homeland security grants are critical to New York, and these funds will go a long way towards keeping our state safe and secure. I thank Homeland Security officials for approving these vital funds.”