May 19, 2011

Washington, D.C. – Today, Nevada Senator Harry Reid announced that Nevada has received more than $16 million from the Department of Homeland Security for several FEMA grant programs that will allow the state to provide resources for emergency preparedness and protection against acts of terrorism.  Senator Reid worked tirelessly to ensure that Nevada received its fair share.

“Nevada’s economy and tens of thousands of jobs depends on a thriving tourism industry,” said Reid. “These crucial funds will help give confidence to tourists from around the globe that destinations like Las Vegas and Reno are safe places to travel for business and pleasure.  I will continue fighting to ensure our law enforcement officials have all the tools and resources they need to continue doing the brave work they already do on behalf of our state.”

BACKGROUND:

The following are descriptions and monetary sums of the grants Nevada will receive:

Drivers License Security Grant Program - $701,063: The Driver’s License Security Grant Program (DLSGP) provides money to prevent terrorism and reduce fraud. The DLSGP is intended to address a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission to improve the integrity and security of State-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.

Emergency Management Performance Grant Program - $4,141,368: The Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) provides necessary direction, coordination, and guidance, and provides necessary assistance so that a comprehensive emergency preparedness system exists for all hazards.

State Homeland Security Grant Program - $5,137,205: The State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) supports the implementation of State Homeland Security Strategies to address the identified planning, organization, equipment, training, and exercise needs at the State and local levels to prevent, protect against, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism and other catastrophic events. $1,739,340 must be spent on Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities.

Urban Area Security Initiative - $5,705,105: Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) program addresses the unique planning, organization, equipment, training, and exercise needs of high-threat, high-density Urban Areas, and assists them in building an enhanced and sustainable capacity to prevent, protect against, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism. $1,557,422 must be spent on Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities. This money is specific to the Las Vegas area.

Metropolitan Medical Response System - $281,693: The Metropolitan Security Grant Program (MMRS) supports the integration of emergency management, health, and medical systems into a coordinated response to mass casualty incidents caused by any hazard. This money is specific to the Las Vegas area.

Citizen Corps Grant Program - $125,598: The Citizen Corps Grant Program (CCP) brings community and government leaders together to coordinate the involvement of community members and organizations in emergency preparedness, planning, mitigation, response, and recovery.

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