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FOXX VOTES FOR FASTER, SMARTER FUNDING FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Washington, DC, May 12, 2005
Today U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx (N.C.-5) demonstrated her enduring loyalty to emergency service personnel by voting to ensure more effective and efficient funding for first responders.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Amy Auth
202-225-2071

WASHINGTON – Today U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx (N.C.-5) demonstrated her enduring loyalty to emergency service personnel by voting to ensure more effective and efficient funding for first responders.

“While there are many other important issues, homeland security is the most significant priority for our nation,” said Rep. Foxx. “Without strong homeland security, the other issues cannot be dealt with. One of my top priorities as a Member of Congress is to make sure fire fighters, police officers and EMS workers get the support and share of homeland security money they deserve.”

The Faster and Smarter Funding for First Responders Act (H.R. 1544) will streamline terrorism preparedness grants by moving the planning process ahead of the grant making. “This common sense change will help eliminate unnecessary delays and waste of vital homeland security dollars,” said Rep. Foxx. “Now homeland security plans will be in place before a grant is ever awarded.”

The bill will also encourage regional cooperation to increase emergency preparedness. Interstate and intrastate regions will now be permitted to apply for terrorism preparedness grants.

Finally, H.R. 1544 will provide priority assistance to first responders facing the greatest risk. This change coincides with recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission. Currently, funding is distributed to localities based on population rather than risk.

“As it stands, North Carolina is the 13th largest state, but 49th on the priority list for homeland security funds,” said Rep. Foxx. “With Fort Bragg, the Research Triangle Park and other key terrorist targets, our state is certainly not the second to last in need of funding. This legislation will change that.”

The bill was endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Fire Fighters, National Volunteer Fire Council, American Ambulance Association, Major County Sheriff’s Association, National Troopers Coalition and many other emergency response associations. It passed the House in a 409-10 vote.

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