GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES $2 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR LOCAL BOMB SQUADS

Funding Provides Critical, Advanced Training and Equipment to FBI-Accredited Squads

Improves Local Bomb Squad Capability to Locate and Prevent Emergencies Caused by Improvised Explosive Devices

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York State has secured $2 million in federal Homeland Security Grant Program funding to combat the threat from improvised explosive devices. This funding will help equip and train the state’s 12 local FBI-accredited bomb squads to locate and prevent potential emergencies caused by improvised explosive devices or IEDs. More than $21 million in dedicated homeland security funding has been awarded to New York bomb squads over 13 consecutive years. 

“The brave men and women who make up New York State’s local bomb squads train tirelessly to respond to any emergency without concern for their personal safety,” Governor Cuomo said.  “These grants will help ensure our local bomb squads have the funding and resources they need to continue serving and protecting their communities, creating a safer New York for all.”

In addition to improved equipment and advanced training, funding will be used by local bomb squad teams to enhance and improve coordination with law enforcement organizations, including specialty teams such as tactical and explosive detection canine, and regional partners. All local bomb squads are required to collaborate with other squads in their region, which is based on FBI regions, to review capabilities, identify gaps and develop spending plans for bomb squad funding. Squads in each region must reach consensus on their respective spending plans, which are closely coordinated with their FBI Special Agent Bomb Technician, to ensure that funds are being used in the most efficient and effective way possible. 

Bomb squads receiving funding are below:

Grantee

Funding Amount

New York City

$468,360

Westchester County

$318,180

Suffolk County

$218,180

Nassau County

$234,180

Rockland County

$61,100

Erie County

$95,000

Chautauqua County

$100,000

City of Rochester

$100,000

Monroe County

$105,000

City of Syracuse

$100,000

Onondaga County

$100,000

Village of Endicott

$100,000

Total

$2,000,000

 

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Patrick Murphy said, “The talented men and women who serve on bomb squads throughout New York have dedicated their lives to ensuring their communities are safe and secure. This funding will not only afford them the training they need to keep up with emerging threats, but also ensure they have the resources necessary for responding to some of the most dangerous situations faced by law enforcement.”

Representative Nita Lowey said, “Investing in New York State’s 12 local FBI-accredited bomb squads and ensuring seamless coordination between law enforcement agencies are critical to protecting New York and the unique culture, experiences, and sights that draw visitors from around the world. That is why, as Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud to have secured more than $1.2 billion in fiscal year 2019 to help New York, and other state and local governments across the country, protect against terrorist threats and disasters.”

Representative José E. Serrano said, “First responders put everything on the line to keep us safe. It is critical that we provide them with the tools and support that they need and deserve. Thank you Governor Cuomo for tireless support of New York’s first responders and for prioritizing the safety of our communities.