DHS sends out grant applications

The Homeland Security Department today began distributing applications for grants to state agencies totaling $48.6 million for Real ID projects and $34 million for emergency operations centers.

Under the Driver’s License Security Grant Program, state agencies are eligible to receive funding for projects to advance the goals of the Real ID Act of 2005. The funding amounts have been set by a formula based on population. Applications are due by Feb. 27, 2009
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Congress passed the counterrorism law to require states to adopt federal standards for collecting, verifying and sharing drivers’ personal information.

 In addition, applications are available for $34 million under the Emergency Operations Centers Grant Program to support “flexible, sustainable, secure and interoperable” emergency operations centers, DHS said.

State agencies may request up to $1 million for new construction or $250,000 for renovations. Approximately $22 million will be distributed by formula and the remaining $12 million will be allocated competitively, DHS said.