NY Homeland Security News

Governor Hochul Declares State of Emergency as Blizzard Set to Hit NY

Governor Kathy Hochul declared a State of Emergency for 21 New York counties as a major blizzard is forecast to impact Long Island, New York City, and the Hudson Valley. Forecasts indicate 18-24 inches of snow for Long Island and NYC with wind gusts up to 60 mph. The Governor activated 100 members of the New York National Guard with 25 vehicles to support response operations.

Hochul Announces $10.5M Federal Homeland Security Grants for NY Localities

Governor Hochul announced $10.5 million in federal FY 2023 and FY 2024 State Homeland Security Program grants awarded to 80 cities, towns, villages, and counties statewide. Funding through seven targeted grant programs supports bomb squads, hazardous materials teams, explosive detection canine teams, tactical teams, and technical rescue capabilities. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services manages the grants, which also advance local governments' cybersecurity capabilities and critical infrastructure protection.

Governor Hochul Deploys Snow Removal Assets to Massachusetts to Support Winter Storm Response

New York Governor Hochul deployed 78 personnel and 81 pieces of snow removal equipment to Massachusetts to support winter storm response operations. The deployment was coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the national mutual aid system ratified by Congress. Assets came from the NY State Thruway Authority, NY State Department of Transportation, and NY Power Authority to assist Massachusetts with snow removal after a blizzard deposited over two feet of snow.

$38 Million Statewide Interoperable Communications Grant Awards for First Responder Emergency Communications

Governor Hochul announced over $38 million in Statewide Interoperable Communications Grant funding awarded to 17 counties and New York City to strengthen emergency communications infrastructure for first responders. The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will administer the funding under the Combined 2024 & 2025 SICG Targeted Grant Program, supporting radio tower upgrades, equipment installation, and enhanced interoperability channels.