Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday announced $3.98 million in funding from the Homeland Security Grant Program for state and local first responders to sustain and enhance protection, prevention and response capabilities to prevent terrorism and other catastrophic events.
“On both the state and local levels, safety and preparedness remain of high importance year-round. I am grateful to the Department of Homeland Security for providing nearly $4 million in funds to ensure Alabamians are protected and that we are ready to respond in any situation,” Ivey said. “Alabama’s law enforcement and first responders work diligently around-the-clock to protect our state, and these funds will go a long way in helping them do that.”
More than $1.8 million was awarded in Alabama to local first responders in a statewide competitive grant process in three categories: interoperable communications, physical protective measures and public warning systems.
Additionally, over $900,000 was awarded to the state and local first responders in the Alabama Mutual Aid System (AMAS). AMAS consists of fire services, communication and law enforcement teams specifically trained in search and rescue operations, hazardous materials response, swift-water rescue operations and explosive ordnance disposal response. The remaining funds will be retained for state-level projects.
“Governor Ivey continues to show her dedication to first responders in Alabama by working to secure these Homeland Security grants,” added Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor. “ALEA is pleased that this federal-state partnership will provide these resources to use in all hazard situations.”
