FEMA to grant funds for state, local responders and emergency management

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Jim Bunning recently announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will grant $1,791,373 to the Commonwealth of Kentucky for state and local responders and emergency management to become better prepared to respond to acts of terrorism and other emergencies and disasters. 

The funds are being provided through the Fiscal Year 2002 supplemental appropriations as part of President Bush’s First Responder Initiative.

Of the $1,719,373 awarded to Kentucky, $1,406,637 will be used for updating state and local plans and procedures to respond to all hazards, with a focus on weapons of mass destruction. The updated plans will help address a common incident command system, mutual aid agreements, resource typing and standards, interoperability protocols, critical infrastructure protection, and continuity of operations for state and local governments. 

At least 75 percent of the grant amount is required to go to local governments.

The funds will assist local governments in developing comprehensive plans, linked through mutual aid agreements, outlining the specific roles for all first responders in responding to terrorist incidents and other disasters.

This award will also provide $50,000 to Kentucky in 2002 funds to assess the State’s Emergency Operations Center.

“During these volatile times, it’s vital that Kentuckians know their infrastructure is as strong as it possibly can be,” said Senator Bunning. “This funding will go a long way in helping local and state governments establish an efficient and effective first response system.’’ 

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