Submits Strengthening and Updating Resources and Equipment Act of 2009

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Mary Jo Kilroy today introduced legislation that will allow first responders to maintain the capabilities necessary to prepare and protect their communities against acts of terrorism and other emergencies. The Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, Bennie Thompson, joined Kilroy in cosponsoring the Strengthening and Updating Resources and Equipment Act (SURE Act) of 2009.

Since 2002, state and local governments have utilized the State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) and the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) to purchase highly-technical homeland security equipment. The equipment has provided first responders with the necessary capabilities to safeguard our communities. Homeland security equipment requires annual maintenance and sustainment in order to remain operational. Accordingly, FEMA has allowed state and local governments to use their annual SHSGP and UASI funding to maintain equipment that was purchased in prior fiscal years.

On September 22, 2009, FEMA sharply reversed course and told state and local governments that they would no longer be allowed to use future SHSGP and UASI funding to keep critical homeland security equipment up-to-date.

“Many states, including Ohio, have invested millions of federal Homeland Security dollars to purchase emergency equipment.  FEMA’s new policy compromises our nation’s security and will further strain state and local budgets,” said Kilroy.  “I refuse to watch the safety of my constituents get put on the chopping block. The SURE Act will overturn FEMA’s policy and ensure our first responders have the tools they need to address our nation’s 21st century security challenges.”

Bennie G. Thompson, Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, added, “Representative Kilroy has identified a FEMA policy that doesn’t make sense and will hurt our first responder community.  I commend her for introducing the SURE Act and am proud to cosponsor it.  I look forward to working with Representative Kilroy to move this legislation through the Committee on Homeland Security.” 

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