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Homeland Security: Standards for State and Local Preparedness [Updated October 8, 2003]
Some Members of Congress, as well Administration officials and other
observers, believe that state and local governments should be held to established
standards for terrorism preparedness. They argue that standards could improve the
capability of first responders to deal with terrorist attacks, particularly those
involving weapons of mass destruction (WMD).
Preparedness standards can be categorized by such attributes as scope,
development process, and user community. They can include broad performance
goals, as well asmore specific operational procedures and equipment specifications.
Traditionally, nongovernmental organizations develop preparedness standards,
sometimes with the participation of federal agencies. Since the terrorist attacks of
September 2001, however, a number of federal agencies have initiated efforts to
develop preparedness standards, among which are the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA, now in DHS), National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST), and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There are a number of policy approaches Congress could take, should it desire
to address preparedness standards. Encouraging the development and
implementation of standards could give states and localities discretion in adapting
standards to their unique preparedness needs, but may not lead to nationwide
adoption.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-10-08
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Terrorism Preparedness: Catalog of Selected Federal Assistance Programs [Updated October 6, 2006]
"Congress has authorized a limited number of programs specifically designed to assist state and local governments with homeland security activities. Some programs assist first responders with preparing for terrorist attacks, particularly those involving weapons of mass destruction. In addition, Congress has authorized several general assistance programs that states and localities may use for terrorism preparedness."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-10-06
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated September 29, 2003]
"In its FY2004 budget request, the Bush Administration proposed a new grant program called the 'First Responder Initiative' to help first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the proposal, the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP), within the Department of Homeland Security, would administer program components of the initiative. The program's primary purpose would be to improve the ability of first responders (including police, firefighters, emergency medical, and hazardous materials personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. The program would fund a range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. The Administration proposal is one of several proposals to restructure first responder preparedness grants before the 108th Congress. Recently, the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee approved S. 1245, the Homeland Security Grant Enhancement Act of 2003, which seeks to simplify and streamline existing grant programs for first responder preparedness. This report will be updated as the 108th Congress takes action on proposals to create or modify first responder preparedness programs."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-09-29
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated August 28, 2003]
"In its FY2004 budget request, the Bush Administration proposed a new grant program called the 'First Responder Initiative' to help first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the proposal, the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP), within the Department of Homeland Security, would administer the $3.6 billion program. The programs primary purpose would be to improve the ability of first responders (including police, firefighters, emergency medical, and hazardous materials personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. The program would fund a range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. The Administration proposal is one of several proposals to restructure first responder preparedness grants before the 108th Congress. Recently, the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee approved S. 1245, the Homeland Security Grant Enhancement Act of 2003, which seeks to simplify and streamline existing grant programs for first responder preparedness. Among other things, the bill authorizes a formula grant to states and localities for a broad range of preparedness activities. Other introduced bills propose different methods of distribution, ranges of eligible activities, and matching requirements. Examples of introduced bills include H.R. 1389, H.R. 1449, S. 87/H.R. 1007, S. 466, and S. 930. Restructuring proposals have also been included in House and Senate homeland security appropriations bills (H.R. 2555)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-08-28
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated July 8, 2003]
"In its FY2004 budget request, the Bush Administration proposed a new grant program called the 'First Responder Initiative' to help first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the proposal, the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP), within the Department of Homeland Security, would administer the $3.6 billion program. The programs primary purpose would be to improve the ability of first responders (including police, firefighters, emergency medical, and hazardous materials personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. The program would fund a range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. The Administration proposal is one of several proposals to restructure first responder preparedness grants before the 108th Congress. Recently, the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee approved S. 1245, the Homeland Security Grant Enhancement Act of 2003, which seeks to simplify and streamline existing grant programs for first responder preparedness. Among other things, the bill authorizes a formula grant to states and localities for a broad range of preparedness activities. Other introduced bills propose different methods of distribution, ranges of eligible activities, and matching requirements. Examples of introduced bills include H.R. 1389, H.R. 1449, S. 87/H.R. 1007, S. 466, and S. 930."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-07-08
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated June 19, 2003]
From the Summary: "In its FY2004 request, the Bush Administration proposed a new block grant program called the 'First Responder Initiative' to help state and local first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the proposal, the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP), within the Department of Homeland Security, would administer the $3.5 billion program. The program's primary purpose would be to improve the ability of first responders (police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. The program would fund a range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. While the need for federal assistance for first responders seems to be widely acknowledged, the proposals raise a number of issues, including the following: How will the implementation of the Department of Homeland Security affect the proposal? Would a new program replace existing assistance programs? Should funds be distributed to states or localities? Should the use of funds be limited to standardized activities and equipment? Should infrastructure security and overtime costs be eligible activities? How will the funds be accounted for? This report will be updated as the 108th Congress takes action on proposals to create or modify terrorism preparedness grant programs."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-06-19
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated June 4, 2003]
"In its FY2004 budget request, the Bush Administration proposed a new grant program called the 'First Responder Initiative' to help first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the proposal, the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP), within the Department of Homeland Security, would administer the $3.6 billion program. The programs primary purpose would be to improve the ability of first responders (including police, firefighters, emergency medical, and hazardous materials personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. The program would fund a range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. The Administration proposal is one of several proposals to restructure first responder preparedness grants before the 108th Congress. Introduced bills propose different methods of distribution, ranges of eligible activities, and matching requirements. Examples of introduced bills include H.R. 1389, H.R. 1449, S. 87/H.R. 1007, S. 466, and S. 930."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-06-04
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Department of Homeland Security: State and Local Preparedness Issues [Updated May 5, 2003]
The Homeland Security Act transferred several federal entities administering preparedness programs to the new department of Homeland Security. In addition, the Justice Department's Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) will be transferred to the Border and Transportation Security directorate. ODP provides training, equipment grants, and technical assistance to states and localities. At least two bills have been introduced in the 108th Congress that would restructure DHS entities administering preparedness programs. The department's Office of State and Local Government Coordination, however, may have the necessary authority to develop a department-wide approach.The Homeland Security Act instructs FEMA to maintain its all-hazards focus, but some observers contend that, with the threat of terrorism, this approach may no longer apply.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-05-05
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated March 19, 2003]
"In its FY2004 request, the Bush Administration proposed a new block grant program called the 'First Responder Initiative' to help state and local first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the proposal, the Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP), within the Department of Homeland Security, would administer the $3.5 billion program. The programs primary purpose would be to improve the ability of first responders (police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. The program would fund a range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. The 107th Congress considered a number of bills similar to the Administration proposal. In October 2002, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee reported S. 2664, the First Responder Terrorism Preparedness Act of 2002. The bill contained several features proposed by the Administration, including a 25% matching requirement, a wide range of eligible activities, and a requirement that states distribute 75% of funds to sub-state regions. It also contained some provisions not specified in the Administration proposal, such as establishing standards for training and equipment and prohibiting the use of funds for overtime expenses. There are a limited number of terrorism preparedness block grant proposals in the 108th Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-03-19
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Federal Disaster Recovery Programs: Brief Summaries [February 7, 2003]
"This report summarizes principal federal disaster assistance programs. A number of federal agencies provide assistance to victims; state, territorial, and local governments; and nongovernmental entities following a disaster. Among other forms of assistance, federal programs can provide grants, loans, loan guarantees, temporary housing, and counseling. The programs summarized in this catalog fall into two broad categories. First are programs specifically for disaster situations; most of these programs are administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA). The Homeland Security Act of 2002 transferred FEMA to the new Department of Homeland Security. Second are general assistance programs that may be used in disaster situations, as well as meet regular service needs. Many federal agencies, including the Departments of Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, and Justice, administer programs that may be brought to bear under certain circumstances. The programs may also be classified by recipients: primarily individuals, state and local governments, or businesses. They address such short-term needs as food and shelter, and such long-term needs as repair of public utilities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-02-07
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Department of Homeland Security: State and Local Preparedness Issues [Updated February 6, 2003]
From the Summary: "The Homeland Security Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-296) made the new Department
of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for providing assistance to state and local governments to ensure adequate preparedness for all disasters, including terrorist attacks. Several federal entities with functions relating to state and local preparedness, ranging from entire independent agencies to units of agencies and departments, will be transferred to the new department."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-02-06
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Terrorism Preparedness: Catalog of Selected Federal Assistance Programs [Updated January 6, 2003]
"Currently, several agencies administer preparedness programs, among which are the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services, Justice, Energy, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. A number of these programs are scheduled to be transferred to the new Department of Homeland Security. Congress authorizes the programs to provide training, technical assistance, and monetary grants for emergency planning, equipment, and exercises. Most programs focus on helping state and local first responders, including fire service, emergency medical service, and law enforcement, prepare for potential attacks (some observers believe that with the threat of bioterrorism, public health officials should also be considered first responders). This report will be updated to reflect the transfer of programs into the new Department of Homeland Security. It will also be updated as relevant programs are created, modified, or terminated."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-01-06
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Homeland Security: Standards for State and Local Preparedness [January 2, 2003]
Is the United States prepared for a terrorist attack involving a weapon of mass destruction? How will we know when we are prepared? These are some of the many questions policy makers have been asking about the nation's homeland security efforts. State and local first responders, including law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical service, and hazardous materials personnel, are widely acknowledged as being an invaluable homeland security resource. Their proximity insures that they almost always will be among the first to arrive at the scene of a terrorist attack. Some observers believe the implementation of standards for state and local governments can improve preparedness not only for terrorist attacks, but for all types of disasters, be they man-made or natural. This report identifies types of preparedness standards, describes current activities to develop these standards, and discusses policy approaches that Congress might take in addressing this issue. Arguably, standards can assist in evaluating the effectiveness of the new Department of Homeland Security, evaluating selected preparedness grant programs, and identifying weaknesses in state and local preparedness. It can also aid policymakers in evaluating an agency's compliance with the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA), which requires federal agencies to measure their own performance.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2003-01-02
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State and Local Preparedness for Terrorism: Selected Policy Issues [Updated December 19, 2002]
"While the federal government has resources at hand for responding to terrorist attacks, the proximity of state and local first responders insures they will almost always be the first to arrive at the site of an attack. For this reason, the preparedness of state and local governments has become a salient national issue. The President's 'National Strategy for Homeland Security', issued in June 2002, proposes a number of measures to enhance state and local preparedness for terrorist attacks, particularly those involving weapons of mass destruction. Most of these measures, presently undertaken by FEMA and several other agencies, but will be transferred to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which Congress authorized in the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-296). Readers interested in analysis of state and local preparedness functions of the new Department of Homeland Security should see CRS Report RL31490, 'Department of Homeland Security: State and Local Preparedness Issues.' This report will be updated as circumstances warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-12-19
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Department of Homeland Security: State and Local Preparedness Issues [Updated December 11, 2002]
"The Homeland Security Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-296) makes the new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for providing assistance to state and local governments to ensure adequate preparedness for all disasters, including terrorist attacks. Several federal entities with functions relating to state and local preparedness, ranging from entire independent agencies to units of agencies and departments, will be transferred to the new department. Those transferred to the Emergency Preparedness and Response directorate (EPR) include: 1) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in its entirety; 2) National Domestic Preparedness Office and Domestic Emergency Support Teams, (FBI, within the Department of Justice); 3) Office of Emergency Preparedness (HHS), including the National Disaster Medical System and Metropolitan Medical Response System; and, 4) National Strategic Stockpile (HHS). The Justice Departments Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) will be transferred to the Border and Transportation Security directorate. ODP provides training, equipment grants, and technical assistance to states and localities. Its assistance activities focus exclusively on preparedness for terrorist attacks - particularly those involving weapons of mass destruction."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-12-11
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated December 11, 2002]
"In February 2002, the Bush Administration proposed a new block grant program called the 'First Responder Initiative,' to help state and local first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the Administration proposal, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would administer the program, which, if approved, would provide $3.5 billion to states and localities. The Administrations primary goal for the program is to improve the ability of first responders (police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The program would fund a broad range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. The 107th Congress considered a number of bills similar to the Administration proposal. On October 1, 2002, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committed reported S. 2664, the First Responder Terrorism Preparedness Act of 2002. The bill contained several features proposed by the Administration, including a 25% matching requirement, a wide range of eligible activities, and a requirement that states distribute 75% of funds to sub-state regions. S. 2664 also contained some provisions not specified in the Administration proposal, such as establishing standards for training and equipment and prohibiting the use of funds for overtime expenses. Other proposals for preparedness block grants were introduced in the 107th Congress, including S. 2038/H.R. 4059."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-12-11
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated November 27, 2002]
"In February 2002, the Administration proposed a new block grant program called the First Responder Initiative, to help state and local first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. Under the Administration proposal, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would administer the program, which, if approved, would provide $3.5 billion to states and localities. The Administrations primary goal for the program is to improve the ability of first responders (police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The proposed program would fund a broad range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. The 107th Congress considered a number of bills similar to the Administration proposal. On October 1, 2002, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committed approved S. 2664, the First Responder Terrorism Preparedness Act of 2002. The bill contained several features proposed by the Administration, including a 25% matching requirement, a wide range of eligible activities, and a requirement that states distribute 75% of funds to sub-state regions. S. 2664 also contained some provisions not specified in the Administration proposal, such as establishing standards for training and equipment and prohibiting the use of funds for overtime expenses."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-11-27
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First Responder Initiative: Policy Issues and Options [Updated October 7, 2002]
"In its FY2003 budget request, the Administration proposed a new grant program, called the 'First Responder Initiative,' to help state and local first responders prepare for possible terrorist attacks. The Federal Emergency Management Agency would administer the program, which, if approved, would provide $3.5 billion to states and localities. The Administrations primary goal for the program is to improve the ability of first responders (police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel) to respond to terrorist attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. The proposed program would fund a broad range of activities in the areas of planning, training, exercises, and equipment. On October 1, 2002, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committed approved S. 2664, the First Responder Terrorism Preparedness Act of 2002. The bill contains several features proposed by the Administration, including a 25% matching requirement, a wide range of eligible activities, and a requirement that states distribute 75% of funds to sub-state regions. S. 2664 also contains some provisions not specified in the Administration proposal, such as establishing standards for training and equipment and prohibiting the use of funds for overtime expenses."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-10-07
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Department of Homeland Security: State and Local Preparedness Issues [Updated August 14, 2002]
From the Summary: "The House and Senate proposals for a new Department of Homeland Security would make the new department responsible for coordinating activities with, and providing assistance to, state and local governments to ensure adequate preparedness for possible terrorist attacks. H.R. 5005 and S. 2452 would place these functions within the Emergency Preparedness and Response division (EPR), which would integrate existing agencies with functions relating to state and local preparedness. [...] Congress will likely debate a number of issues as it considers H.R. 5005 and S. 2452, including how best to structure the department to act as a single point of contact for state and local officials. As part of this issue, Congress will consider the authority and duties of an Office of State and Local Government Coordination. Another issue is how the department will set standards and evaluate state and local preparedness. Congress may also be asked to consider the way in which the department will integrate training programs from different agencies. A final issue is whether integrating FEMA into the new department would impact state and local preparedness for natural disasters."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-08-14
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State and Local Preparedness for Terrorism: Policy Issues and Options [Updated July 26, 2002]
"Congress is presently debating how the structure and responsibilities of a new Department of Homeland Security will impact state and local preparedness for terrorism. Both H.R. 5005 and S. 2452 would consolidate state and local assistance programs into the new department. The department would also be responsible for coordinating the development and implementation of federal, state, and local response plans. At present, Congress authorizes several federal agencies to conduct programs designed to help state and local responders enhance their preparedness for terrorist attacks, particularly attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. These programs cover a range of activities, including emergency planning; training and equipment; response to chemical and biological attacks; law enforcement; and public health. As Congress determines the responsibilities of a new Homeland Security Department, it might consider a range of policy issues frequently mentioned by state and local emergency managers and analysts."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-07-26
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State and Local Preparedness for Terrorism: Policy Issues and Options [Updated May 9, 2002]
"The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have prompted Members of the 107th Congress to consider enhancing state and local response capabilities to better prepare for terrorist attacks, particularly attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. At present, Congress authorizes several programs designed to help state and local responders enhance their preparedness for terrorist attacks. These programs cover a range of activities, including emergency planning; training and equipment; response to chemical and biological attacks; law enforcement; and public health. Since the September attacks, however, emergency managers and analysts have asked Congress to address several issues in federal policy on state and local preparedness." This report includes some of the frequently mentioned policy issues.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-05-09
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State and Local Preparedness for Terrorism: Policy Issues and Options [Updated March 28, 2002]
"The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have prompted Members of the 107th Congress to consider enhancing state and local response capabilities to better prepare for terrorist attacks, particularly attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. At present, Congress authorizes several programs designed to help state and local responders enhance their preparedness for terrorist attacks. These programs cover a range of activities, including emergency planning; training and equipment; response to chemical and biological attacks; law enforcement; and public health. Since the September attacks, however, emergency managers and analysts have asked Congress to address several issues in federal policy on state and local preparedness."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-03-28
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Terrorism Preparedness: A Catalog of Federal Assistance Programs [Updated March 13, 2002]
Congress has authorized a limited number of programs specifically designed to assist state and local governments with preparing for terrorist attacks, particularly those involving weapons of mass destruction. Congress also authorizes several general assistance programs that states and localities may use for terrorism preparedness. At present, several agencies administer preparedness programs, including the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services, and Justice, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Congress authorizes the agencies to provide technical assistance and monetary grants for emergency planning, training, and equipment acquisition. Federal preparedness programs fall into the following categories: emergency management and planning, training, equipment, law enforcement, public health and medical community.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-03-13
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State and Local Preparedness for Terrorism: Policy Issues and Options [February 5, 2002]
"The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have prompted Members of the 107th Congress to consider enhancing state and local response capabilities to better prepare for terrorist attacks, particularly attacks involving weapons of mass destruction. At present, Congress authorizes several programs designed to help state and local responders enhance their preparedness for terrorist attacks. These programs cover a range of activities, including emergency planning; training and equipment; response to chemical and biological attacks; law enforcement; and public health. Since the September attacks, however, emergency managers and analysts have asked Congress to address several issues in federal policy on state and local preparedness."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-02-05
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Recovery from Terrorist Attacks: A Catalog of Selected Federal Assistance Programs [Updated February 1, 2002]
From the Introduction: "Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, on New York City and Washington, DC, Members of Congress from affected jurisdictions asked CRS [Congressional Research Service] to compile a list of federal programs that could assist recovery from the results of such attacks in urban areas. Subsequently, Members from jurisdictions not directly affected have requested such a compilation, in the event their jurisdiction were to experience an attack. The programs listed in this catalog can be classified into two broad categories. First are programs specifically for disaster situations. Second are general assistance programs that may apply to disaster situations. The programs can also be classified by recipients, primarily individuals, state and local governments, or businesses. The programs address such short-term needs as food and shelter, and such long-term needs as repair of public utilities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2002-02-01
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Terrorism Preparedness: A Catalog of Federal Assistance Programs [December 27, 2001]
Congress has authorized a limited number of programs specifically designed to assist state and local governments with preparing for terrorist attacks, particularly
those involving weapons of mass destruction. Congress also authorizes several general assistance programs that states and localities may use for terrorism
preparedness. At present, several agencies administer preparedness programs, including the
Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services, and Justice, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and others. Congress authorizes the agencies to provide technical assistance and monetary grants for emergency planning, training,
and equipment acquisition. Federal preparedness programs can be arranged into the following categories:Emergency management and planning; Training and equipment for first responders; Weapons of mass destruction and hazardous materials; Law enforcement, and Public health and medical community.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Canada, Ben
2001-12-27
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