NJ Governor Corzine Announces Allocation of Millions in Federal Justice Assistance Grants for New Jersey

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Nearly $48 Million In Funds Part Of Federal Economic Recovery Effort

March 04, 2009 -- TRENTON - New Jersey Governor Jon S. Corzine announced today that nearly $48 million in justice assistance grants have been allocated to New Jersey for use in law enforcement, prosecution, court programs, and other related efforts as part of the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

"The global economic recession has hit every level of government and, clearly, every dollar counts," said Governor Corzine. "These funds will go a long way toward keeping police officers on the streets, keeping our communities safe, and curtailing potential property tax increases that otherwise may have been needed to continue critical services."

The grants are made through the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program, administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the U.S. Department of Justice. The program allows states and local governments to support activities for crime prevention and control, including law enforcement, prosecution and courts, prevention and education, corrections, drug treatment and enforcement, technology improvement programs, and victim and witness assistance.

"This enhanced funding allocated to New Jersey under the Byrne grant program will provide us with an opportunity to fund many important local and state law enforcement initiatives, focusing on statewide efforts under the Governor's Crime Plan to target the violent street gangs that are trafficking drugs and guns in our communities," said Attorney General Anne Milgram. "The $30 million allocated to the state will be awarded through my office to both state and local agencies to meet important needs related to the safety and quality of life of our residents."

The allocation for the state of New Jersey, which will be handled by Attorney General Milgram's office, is $29.75 million, a portion of which will also be allocated to local entities. The remaining $17.99 million has been allocated to specific local jurisdictions. Awarding of the funds is contingent on an application by the governmental entity proposing how the funds will be spent. The federal government will issue application guidelines in the near future.

"I urge every eligible municipality and township to apply for this funding as soon as feasible," Governor Corzine said. "We must leave no stone unturned, tap every available resource if we are to continue to provide for the health and safety of all New Jerseyans, even in these uncertain economic times."

Source: New Jersey Governor