Risa
First Congressional District of New Mexico
GO

Home

About Heather

District Profile

Constituent Services

News Center

Issues

E-News

Student Corner

Contact Heather

White Line Space
Default Image
Bottom Shadow
Left Space Hot Topics Left Space
Hot Topics Lines Welcome Home Hot Topics Lines

Hot Topics Lines Economic Stimulus Hot Topics Lines

Hot Topics Lines Social Security Debit Cards Hot Topics Lines

 

Left Space
Contact
Left Space


ask.heather@mail.house.gov

In Washington DC
442 Cannon House
Office Building
Washington, DC
20515
202-225-6316 Phone
202-225-4975 Fax
In Albuquerque
20 First Plaza NW
Suite 603
Albuquerque, NM
87102
505-346-6781 Phone
505-346-6723 Fax

White Line Space
Zanios Food
White Line Space
E-news Submit Button
Printer Friendly
White Line Space

Congresswoman Heather Wilson, First Congressional District of New Mexico


Releases
space
Wilson Backs First Responder Funding for NM May 12, 2005
 
NM Stands to Gain Under Risk-Based Federal Funding Formula


Washington, DC – Congresswoman Heather Wilson today welcomed House passage of legislation increasing Homeland Security federal funding for New Mexico’s first responders through a formula that is partly risk-based.

The U.S. House of Representatives, with Wilson’s support, passed the Faster and Smarter Funding for First Responders Act of 2005 (H.R. 1544) by a vote of 409-10. The legislation changes the federal funding formula for Homeland Security grants to base a portion of it on risks and vulnerabilities to people and critical infrastructure; rather than basing funding solely on population, the new formula would recognize New Mexico’s response needs at large tourist events like the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and the greater need New Mexico faces because of our borders, our national labs and our military facilities.

“New Mexico’s funding stands to increase because of this common-sense change. We’re a border state with a large tourist population and critical defense and energy infrastructure. I welcome this important improvement,” Wilson said.

The legislation is endorsed by firefighters, law enforcement and first responders, including the Fraternal Order of Police, the International Association of Firefighters, the American Ambulance Association and the International Association of EMTs and Paramedics.

Tribal Eligibility for Grants

The legislation recognizes the unique needs of Indian tribes and allows directly eligible tribes, including the Navajo, to receive funding straight from DHS upon submission of a qualified three-year plan to the Secretary.

Highlights of the Faster and Smarter Funding for First Responders Act of 2005

Places Priority on the Greatest Risk: Creates a First Responders Grant Board to prioritize grant applications based on threat, vulnerability, and consequences of a terrorist attack.

Streamlines Terrorism Preparedness Grants: Requires homeland security plans must be in place before grant applicants are awarded taxpayers money. Grant applications will be required to fit statewide homeland security plans and specify how funds will be spent.

Establishes Measurable Goals: Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop standards for first responder equipment and training that will help avoid wasteful spending and improve preparations.

Encourages Regional Cooperation: Allows states and regions to apply for terrorism preparedness grants that are consistent with statewide homeland security plans.

Endorsements of the Faster and Smarter Funding for First Responders Act

International Association of Fire Fighters
National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians
International Association of Fire Chiefs
International Fire Service Training Association
National Volunteer Fire Council
North American Fire Training Directors
American Ambulance Association
International Association of EMTs and Paramedics
International Association of Arson Investigators
National Fire Protection Association
Fraternal Order of Police
Law Enforcement Steering Committee
Major County Sheriff’s Association
Major Cities Chiefs Association
Enforcement Executives
International Brotherhood of Police Officers
National Association of Police Organizations
National Organization of Black Law
National Troopers Coalition
Police Foundation
Police Executive Research Forum

- END -
space



Privacy Statement
| Toolbox | Hablas Español?