Governor Perdue Welcomes Federal Homeland Security Funds

Atlanta - Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that Georgia's homeland security efforts will receive $37.5 million in federal funds.

"Georgia's first responders will be greatly assisted by these additional federal funds," said Governor Sonny Perdue. "We remain under heightened security and these funds will help protect communities across this state."

The U. S. Department of Homeland Security through the Office of Domestic Preparedness will distribute the funds. The largest portion of the funds will help local first responders pay for planning, training, equipment and exercises associated with enhanced security measures. The remaining dollars have been specifically designated to reimburse the state for the costs associated with providing protection for critical infrastructure during the heightened threat period. Georgia's total allocation is $37,579,000, with $32,568,000 allocated for first responder preparedness and $5,011,000 for critical infrastructure preparedness.