BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The North Dakota Department of Emergency Services Homeland Security Division has secured over $7.5 million in federal funding through the FY 2024 Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) and Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), a media release states. The funding will be used to enhance the state’s preparedness and security against potential terrorist attacks.

The Homeland Security Grant Program awarded North Dakota $5,713,750, which includes $4,362,750 from the State Homeland Security Grant and $1,351,000 from the Operation Stonegarden Program. This funding will support 76 projects across 37 counties in 46 jurisdictions, aimed at helping state, local, and tribal governments prevent, protect, respond to, and recover from potential terrorist threats.

Additionally, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program awarded $1,788,252 to fund 20 security projects across 11 counties. These projects will focus on physical security enhancements, such as access controls, security cameras, and screening equipment, designed to protect schools and other heavily populated areas.

Part of the funding will also be used to establish and train Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and Teen CERT, bolstering community disaster response capabilities. Further funds will support election security measures through physical site security upgrades and public awareness efforts.