Chairman Carper Commends Delaware’s Management of Homeland Security Program Grants

WILMINGTON, Del. – Today, U.S. Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chair of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, commended Delaware’s management of its state homeland security program grants after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General released a report reviewing how the awards were implemented.

According to the report, Delaware’s Management of State Homeland Security Program Grants Awarded During Fiscal Years 2010 Through 2012, “Delaware distributed, administered and spent State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) grant funds strategically, effectively and in compliance with laws, regulations and guidance.” The report commends Delaware’s development of its State Homeland Security Strategy, and the state’s ability to prevent, prepare for, protect against and respond to natural disasters, acts of terrorism and other manmade disasters. The report also noted that local officials have demonstrated a willingness to work together to improve the ability of various agencies to respond during an emergency and consolidate program needs to share resources and funds.

“As we all know too well, disasters – whether natural or man-made – can strike at any place and at any time, and sometimes with little or no warning,” said Chairman Carper. “With recent storms like Superstorm Sandy hitting its shores, Delaware has proven it stands ready to face emergency events, and this report shows that the funding the state has received is being put to good use. The report also highlights what we already know in Delaware – that our agencies work together to maximize dollars and man-power in order to get the job done before, during, and after an emergency. I commend Delaware for leading the way when it comes to effective and efficient state homeland security grant management and I hope our state’s success can serve as a model for other states as they implement these important program grants.”

“We acknowledge the incredible effort our Delaware Emergency Management Agency undertakes on behalf of the people of the State of Delaware not only during times of an emergency but also in the professional and meticulous way they administer our homeland security grant funds,” Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Lewis D. Schiliro said. “We also thank Sen. Carper for his support, guidance and leadership as chair of the Senate Homeland Security Committee.”

To read the full report, go to http://www.oig.dhs.gov/assets/Mgmt/2014/OIG_14-23_Dec13.pdf