Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, “We continue to strengthen our local emergency response efforts and ensure our partners across every level are prepared for whatever disaster comes our way. My top priority is keeping New Yorkers safe, and with today’s investment in our local emergency management agencies, we are building a safer, stronger New York for everyone.”
To qualify for the funding, counties are required to develop projects or initiatives that enhance readiness and response capabilities for potential hazards. These projects address FEMA-identified areas of national improvement, such as evacuation planning, disaster financial management, and resilient communications. The funding can be used for management and administration activities, planning, staffing for emergency management agencies, equipment, training, exercises, construction and renovation of emergency operations centers, and the maintenance of GIS and interoperable communication systems.
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray highlighted the significance of local emergency management agencies, saying, “Emergency management agencies at the county level play vital roles in readiness and disaster response. This funding will help our counties and New York get important training and other resources to help keep their neighbors safe in the event of an emergency.”
NYSAC President Benjamin Boykin II expressed gratitude for the support, noting, “Unprecedented disasters, both natural and man-made, are becoming the new normal in New York State and when they strike, county emergency management offices are the first line of defense in our communities. We thank Governor Hochul, Senator Schumer, and our New York congressional delegation for their leadership and commitment to ensuring our local first responders have the training, planning, equipment, and staffing they need to keep New Yorkers safe.”
New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol also praised the initiative, saying, “As emergency managers, we have seen the number of responses increase tenfold over the past few years. Whether from a global pandemic, to extreme heat, hurricanes, and now drought and brush fires. With this additional federal funding by FEMA and Governor Hochul, we can continue to assist our communities before, during, and after emergencies.”
The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) will administer the funds on behalf of FEMA and work directly with each jurisdiction’s emergency management office to ensure the funds are distributed promptly. This funding underscores the importance of maintaining robust disaster preparedness to protect New Yorkers against increasing natural and man-made challenges.
