News & Events

Press Releases

FEMA Awards $708,766 To Maine For State And Local Emergency Preparedness

Release No.: R1-02-027
Release Date: December 12, 2002

Boston, MA - Joe M. Allbaugh, Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), today announced FEMA will grant $708,766 to Maine 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 appropriation as part of President Bush's First Responder Initiative.

"This grant will give Maine and its local communities a down payment on plans to modernize and strengthen preparedness statewide," Allbaugh said . "This is critical to supporting first responders and preparing Massachusetts for all kinds of disasters."

Of the $ 708,766 awarded to Maine, $ 445,174 will be provided 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. Administered by FEMA's Office of National Preparedness, at least 75 percent of the grant amount is required to go to local governments. The funds will assist local governments develop comprehensive plans, linked through mutual aid agreements, outlining the specific roles for all first responders (fire service, law enforcement, emergency medical service, public works, etc.) in responding to terrorist incidents and other disasters.

"I applaud President Bush's strong support and dedication to the First Responder Initiative Program," Allbaugh said. "We can never thank First Responders enough for the work they do and the lives they save, but giving them financial support and additional resources is a great place to start."

FEMA also will provide $50,000 to Maine in 2002 funds to assess the Maine Emergency Operations Center.