The way Homeland Security Grant applications are assessed changed in 2006. Previously, HSG funds were based on a formula that consisted of a base amount for all states, plus additional funds based on population. Now, Homeland Security Presidential Directive 8 defines seven priorities for funding to localities, which determine the HSG allotment for Virginia. Priorities include:
- Implementing the National Incident Management System and National Response Plan nationwide
- Expanding regional collaboration
- Implementing the Interim National Infrastructure Protection Plan
- Strengthening information sharing and collaboration capabilities
- Strengthening interoperable communications capabilities
- Strengthening chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive detection, response and decontamination capabilities
- Strengthening medical surge and mass prophylaxis capabilities
Reviews Mandated by House Resolution 2360
All states and 75 of the country’s largest urban areas must provide a self-assessment and statement of certification for their catastrophic planning, specifically mass evacuation planning. In Virginia, the cities of Norfolk, Richmond and Virginia Beach, as well as the National Capitol Region will participate in the review. The assessments are mandated by House Resolution 2360, to ensure that sufficient resources are devoted to planning for the “complete evacuation of residents, including special needs groups in hospitals and nursing homes, or resident without access to transportation, in advance of and after such an event, as well as plans for sustenance of evacuees.” The brief narrative self-assessment, statement of certification and electronic copies of relevant materials are a prerequisite for Homeland Security grants.
Additional Resources
- Executive Order 102: Virginia officially adopts NIMS [1.5mb PDF]
- Department of Homeland Security HSPD-8 Fact Sheets [138 KB PDF]
- Detailed HSPD-8 and 2006 Homeland Security Grant information and planning tools are available at the Department of Homeland Security’s Lessons Learned Information Sharing Web site (a free registration is required). [external website — opens in a new browser window]
