A coalition of Rhode Island lawmakers said on Friday that the state would receive more than $8 million in federal funds to assist first responders in response to a range of security challenges and crises.
The coalition included U.S. Sens. Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), along with U.S. Reps. Jim Langevin (D-RI) and David Cicilline (D-RI).
The funds were awarded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and will be administered by the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA), and will be targeted at helping Rhode Island government agencies and organizations prepare for, respond to, and recover from regional and national emergencies and disasters. Additionally, the funds will cover the purchase of training and essential equipment.
“Whether it is a major storm or an attack like the ones we’ve seen in places like Paris, Istanbul and Orlando, preparedness is critical and these federal funds will help address security vulnerabilities and enhance the state’s emergency response capabilities,” Reed said. “I commend RIEMA and all our first responders for the excellent work they do and I am pleased to help deliver these federal funds to make our communities safer.”
The State Homeland Security Program will receive $3,734,500, $3,306,975 is earmarked for the Emergency Management Performance Grant, $1 million will go to the Port Security Program, and $24,670 will be for the Intercity Bus Security Grant Program.