DHS issues guidance for port security grants

The Department of Homeland Security has made $100 million available for 2015 port security grants.

   Port authorities and other maritime interests can now apply for $100 million in port security grants. The Department of Homeland Security on Thursday notified the public of the funding opportunity for $1.6 billion in preparedness grants, including for port security.
   The port security grants are designed to support prevention, protection, mitigation, response and recovery missions. Funds can be applied to enhance infrastructure protection against terrorism; cybersecurity capabilities; technology for maritime domain awareness; defense against nuclear, biological, chemical and explosive attacks; risk mitigation projects that support port resilience and recovery; training exercises; and implementation of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential.
   The American Association of Port Authorities continues to urge Congress to increase the authorization and appropriation levels for the program back to $400 million.
   According to the notice of opportunity for port security grants, the application deadline is May 19.