Department Of Homeland Security Announces $3,357,681 To Tennessee For All-Hazards Emergency And Terrorism Preparedness
Release Date: December 19, 2003
Release Number: R4-03-304
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is pleased to announce the allocation of $3,357,681 to Tennessee to better prepare to respond to all hazards and enhance preparedness activities and emergency management. The Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) program is another step toward achieving President Bush’s vision for comprehensive emergency management at state and local levels that is adaptable to any terrorist attack, man-made incident or natural disaster.
“We’re engaged in a full scale effort with our state and local partners to address their needs and provide the appropriate funds for preparedness, response, recovery and risk reduction for all-hazards,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge. “We recognize the challenges that the states and localities face in emergency management, and will continue to work with them to secure the homeland through this all-hazards approach.”
The Department of Homeland Security EMPG program supports comprehensive emergency management at the state and local levels and encourages the improvement of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities for all-hazards. Funds provided under the EMPG may, and should, be used to support activities that contribute to capability to prevent, to prepare for, and to recover from natural and man-made disasters. EMPG’s provide states the flexibility to allocate funds according to risk vulnerabilities and to address the most urgent state and local needs in disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The funds were allocated for EMPG’s from the FY’04 budget.
“The effectiveness of state and local responder organizations is critical to the success of all aspects of the Homeland Security mission,” said Under Secretary Michael D. Brown. “Local emergency managers plan, train, exercise and provide the facilities needed to coordinate all emergency services in response to disasters of all kinds. They also assume the leading role in mitigation program activities, those designed to reduce the vulnerability of communities to all hazards.”
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 22-Dec-2003 10:03:58