Letter Asks Chertoff to Change Homeland Grant Guidance Inconsistent with Law
Friday, April 11, 2008
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Homeland Security Chairman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) and Ranking Member Peter T. King (R-NY), along with Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Chairman Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) and Ranking Member Susan Collins (R-ME), sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff expressing serious concerns about provisions in the 2008 Homeland Security Grant Program Guidance which are inconsistent with the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (The 9/11 Bill). The 9/11 Bill permits state and local governments to use up to 50% of the funding they receive through these programs for any combination of personnel expenditures. Unfortunately, the FY 2008 Homeland Security Grant Program Guidance places limits on the funding far below the 50% level included in the law.
In the letter, linked below, the Members ask the Secretary to change the grant guidance to comply with the 9/11 Act to ensure our State and local partners receive the financial assistance they need.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact Dena Graziano or Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978.
