WASHINGTON -The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released $194 million to help states and local governments prepare and implement emergency management activities through the Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) program. Emergency managers have been awarded more than $750 million since fiscal year 2004 through the program.

“The department remains steadfast in its commitment to providing this critical assistance to the nation’s emergency management community,” said Under Secretary George Foresman. “These resources will help state and local officials to sustain or strengthen the effectiveness of emergency management programs nationwide.”

State emergency management agencies use EMPG funds to enhance their emergency management capabilities in a range of areas that include planning, equipping, and training, conducting exercises, and providing for all-hazards emergency management operations. In addition, EMPG funds are used to pay for personnel who write plans, conduct training and exercise programs, maintain emergency response programs, and educate the public on disaster readiness

EMPG funding supports state emergency management programs based on needs identified through the Emergency Management Accreditation Programs Process, the Nationwide Plan Review or other emergency management assessment processes, and address the national priorities outlined in the Interim National Preparedness Goal.

For information on the fiscal year 2007 EMPG, please visit www.dhs.gov.

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