WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, announced Thursday that state and local governments in Maine will receive more than $6.6 million under the State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP), a 1.36 percent increase over the $6.5 million awarded to Maine in fiscal year 2009.
The SHSGP provides funding to state and local governments for homeland security-related planning, training, equipment, and exercises.
“Maine’s long international border with Canada, its expansive coastline, and its proximity to major populations centers such as Boston and New York require the State to be ready for all manner of emergencies,” Senator Collins said. “These range from anti-terrorism training to preparing for looming threats such as pandemic diseases and natural disasters. I am pleased with the increased level of funding in this area over last year, which will provide a significant boost to the capabilities of first-responders throughout Maine.
“These funds are key to providing important prevention, protection, response, and recovery activities among first-responders in our local communities in Maine,” she said.
The Department of Homeland Security will formally announce the grant awards at a press conference later today.