Governor David A. Paterson announced on Thursday that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded New York State more than $283 million in federal homeland security funding, including more than $145 million for the New York City area.

This allotment totals $36,133,877 more than the 2008 funds distributed to New York, a 14.6 percent increase from 2008 funding levels. Each year, this funding helps communities and first responders across the State to better prepare for and respond to terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and other emergencies.

“New York State and especially New York City, has the greatest need for anti-terror funds and I am glad to see the federal government has recognized that once again,” said Governor Paterson. “These funds are vital to the fight against terror and to increase preparedness for natural disasters. We will continue to enhance our first responder and emergency management capabilities in New York at all levels of government. I thank Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and our Congressional Delegation for directing these funds where they are most needed: New York.”

(YWN Desk – NYC)