Washington, D.C. – New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand unveiled her new guide today entitled, A Guide To Law Enforcement Funding Through The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. During these difficult economic times, many law enforcement agencies throughout New York have been forced to cut their budgets and lay off personnel that are critical to maintaining the safety and security of our neighborhoods. Senator Gillibrand’s guide provides New York’s law enforcement agencies with important information including deadlines, contact information, and a brief overview of the grant programs that are funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The guide will allow the agencies to effectively utilize the stimulus funds to hire new law enforcement personnel and to support programs designed to combat crime and assist crime victims.
“Law enforcement agencies in New York have been squeezed by budget cuts, forced to lay off critical personnel, and reduce key crime prevention programs,” said Senator Gillibrand. “By helping our communities apply for COPS grants, we will make our streets safe, neighborhoods secure, and create new jobs in law enforcement. Protecting our families and communities is the highest priority of our law enforcement professionals, and protecting jobs for New York is my highest priority.”
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides $1 billion for the hiring and retention of police officers through the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, and funding for the Edward Byrne Memorial Competitive Grant Program. In addition, agencies can take advantage of the Secure Our Schools Program funded through the COPS program at the Department of Justice (DOJ). Communities need to apply for COPS grants by April 14, Byrne Memorial Competitive Grants by April 27, and Byrne JAG Grants by May 18. Senator Gillibrand pledged to support New York communities’ applications for COPS funding.
Funding through the COPS Hiring Recovery Program is available for the hiring of entry level sworn law enforcement officers. The Edward Byrne Memorial Competitive Grant Program and the JAG Recovery Program, administered through the DOJ office of Justice Programs, provide grant funding to state, local and tribal governments for the purposes of supporting programs designed to reduce crime and assist crime victims.
Senator Gillibrand is a proud supporter of President Obama’s economic recovery plan, which will save or create more than 215,000 jobs in New York State alone. The economic recovery plan will lay the foundation for future economic growth by building new transportation infrastructure, improving health care technology, investing in development of renewable energy and supporting investments in public education.
For additional details regarding the grant programs and to download Senator Gillibrand’s guide, please visit gillibrand.senate.gov.