Improved Oversight and Longer Deadlines for Homeland Security Grants
This Act enhances oversight and transparency for federal grants aimed at public transit, port security, and general preparedness against threats. It mandates that local authorities and transit agencies will have significantly more time (at least 54 months) to utilize these funds, increasing the effectiveness of security projects. Furthermore, the public gains greater clarity as grant allocation criteria must be publicly disclosed and submitted to Congress before funding opportunities are announced.
Key points
Extended Grant Usage Period: Recipients of security grants (e.g., public transit, ports) will have a minimum of 54 months (4.5 years) to spend the funds, facilitating the completion of complex projects.
Increased Transparency in Funding: The criteria and basis for allocating grants must be publicly announced and submitted to Congress before the notice of funding opportunity is issued.
Faster Funding Announcements: The Department of Homeland Security must publish grant notices no later than 60 days after the relevant appropriations Act is passed, giving applicants at least 30 days to submit applications.
Mandatory Annual Grant Programs: Homeland Security Grant Programs must be administered not less frequently than annually.
Introduced
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