HAWAI`I RECEIVES $15 MILLION HOMELAND SECURITY GRANT

For Immediate Release: May 1, 2003

HONOLULU - Governor Linda Lingle announced today that Secretary Tom Ridge released a $15 million dollar grant allocation for Hawai`i's homeland security.  The funds will be used specifically for critical infrastructure protection, first responder preparedness and training, and equipment procurement. 

The financial assistance has been made available to each state through a U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office for Domestic Preparedness grant to address training and equipment needs, as well as to help defray costs associated with heightened hostilities with Iraq.

"We are grateful to Secretary Ridge for allocating these funds to help cover the costs of our homeland security measures," said Governor Lingle.  "This amount is more than we originally anticipated, and I believe it is due in large part to our state and federal partners.  Also, while Adjutant General Robert Lee was in Washington, D.C. recently, he was able to explain to the Office of Homeland Security our state's unique homeland security needs."

"These funds will assist our first responders at the state and county level, while offsetting costs related to Hawai`i's heightened alert during 'Operation Iraqi Freedom'," said Adjutant General Lee. 

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Contact:
Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: 586-0034
 
Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: 586-0034