Legislation authorizes Homeland Security program

The Senate recently passed legislation that authorizes $75 million annually for the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program for fiscal years 2020 through 2024.

The program provides grants to nonprofits and faith-based organizations to protect against a potential terrorist attack.

A total of $25 million will be available to organizations outside of high-risk areas, while $50 million will be available for nonprofits within high-risk urban areas.

Congress can appropriate more than $75 million annually if it chooses.

Funding can be used for any appropriate activity defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator, such as personnel training.

“It’s a sad fact that synagogues, churches, and mosques are facing the threat of violence at the hands of extremists of all ideologies,” Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, who sponsored the bill, said. “While we need to continue our work to eradicate all forms of extremism and counter domestic terrorism, non-profits need our help now in keeping their houses of worship safe and secure. This bill will give key resources to help our communities have the peace of mind they deserve.”

The bill is a companion to the Protecting Faith-Based and Nonprofit Organizations From Terrorism Act.