FEMA allocates $100m in port security grants

The funds, part of a $1.6 billion distribution of federal money for homeland security purposes, can be used for risk mitigation planning; maritime domain awareness; detection of explosives and other weapons; training and related measures.    The Federal Emergency Management Agency on Tuesday allocated $100 million for port security grants, part of a $1.6 billion distribution of federal money for homeland security purposes.
   The New York City Police Department got 10 percent of the available funds, while the Port of Long Beach was the next highest recipient with almost $3.4 million.
   FEMA is a sub-agency of the Department of Homeland Security.
   Port security grants are part of the federal government’s national preparedness strategy of strengthening critical infrastructure against risks associated with terrorism. The money can be used by port authorities, state and local government agencies and private facility operators on risk mitigation planning; maritime domain awareness; detection of explosives and chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological weapons; training and related measures aimed at reducing port vulnerabilities. Approved expenditures include installation of physical barriers, technology such as sensors and video devices, equipment, and maintenance and personnel to run the systems.
   The American Association of Port Authorities’ position is that Congress should increase the amount appropriated for the program to $400 million per year – the level where it once was.
   Learn more about the selection criteria and which ports received money here.