Washington, Nov 9, 2005 - The House today approved H.R. 2862, the Science, State, Justice, Commerce and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.  The measure provides $21.4 billion for the FBI, Drug Enforcement Agency, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, and NASA.  H.R. 2862 is the final version of this funding bill developed by the House and Senate.  The measure also included funding sought by Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala) for two programs serving Alachua and Marion Counties.  "I am pleased that my colleagues supported my effort to secure $150,000 for the City of Gainesville and Alachua County to enhance public safety, and $100,000 for the Heart of Florida initiative."

Explained Stearns, "In the aftermath of 9/11, there is a compelling need for police and fire departments to communicate effectively, especially in regard to first responders, and to be able to coordinate an effective response to both local, state and national threats.  This 150,000 will advance Gainesville's and Alachua County's Public Safety Joint Communications Project."

"I am also glad to get $100,000 for the Heart of Florida, which promotes regional collaboration among Alachua, Marion and contiguous counties," said Stearns.  "The primary focus of the Coalition is to focus on regional matters relating to economic development, infra-structure, coordination/development of legislative agendas, and through cooperative efforts, to strengthen the region overall."

In addition, H.R. 2862 provides $5.8 billion for the FBI, an increase of $547 million; $1.7 billion for the Drug Enforcement Agency, up $48 million from the previous year; $16.5 billion for NASA, an increase of $260 million, and $2.7 billion for state and local law enforcement agencies.