As Chairman of the Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee and a retired firefighter, I play a close role in many of the public safety issues that come before the General Assembly each session. First responders put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our communities safe. Firefighters, law enforcement officers and emergency medical services (EMS) respond to incidents without hesitation to protect the health and well-being of their fellow Hoosiers. In honor of these selfless protectors, I wanted to dedicate my column this week to an organization that goes above and beyond to support and better protect Hoosier families, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. While my responsibilities during the legislative session are more well-known, a majority of our work actually takes place during the summer months by serving on interim study committees. One of the committees I serve on is the advisory board for the Homeland Security Foundation, where our primary focus is to come up with ways to better protect Hoosiers. What we have found is that several communities in Indiana do not have the resources or training that responders need to adequately perform their duties. That is where the Indiana Homeland Security Foundation Grant Program comes in. Through this program, local organizations are able to apply for funds to address the public safety needs of their citizens. Equipping emergency responders with protective equipment, training and updating 911 notification systems are just a few of the projects that can be funded through the foundation. Last year, over $370,000 in funds were granted to communities throughout the state. For example, the Versailles Volunteer Fire Department received over $3,500 to purchase new fire nozzles, including a portable blitz monitor and a chimney snuffer nozzle. These pieces of equipment allow firefighters to better protect citizens as well as their properties, but require less people to operate during an emergency situation. The Switzerland County Emergency Management Agency also received funding to purchase five new computers and software for their Emergency Operations Center. This will replace outdated software and allow for increased communication during a disaster. These are just two examples of how these grants have benefited our communities, but in order to ensure this program continues, it is important to know how it is funded. That is where you come in. The Homeland Security Foundation is funded by the selfless contributions made by Hoosiers who have purchased the “Secure Indiana” license plates. The fee to receive one of these plates is just $40, in addition to your normal vehicle registration and excise fees. These grants assist emergency responders that risk their lives to protect all Hoosiers, so purchasing one of these plates is a small way we can show our support and gratitude for those who never think twice before coming to our defense. If you would like to learn more about the Indiana Homeland Security Foundation or the Secure Indiana license plate, please visit http://www.in.gov/dhs/foundationscholarship.htm or contact my office at 317-232-9509. -30- |
