Funding to help support drug/gang task forces
Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that law enforcement agencies in Maine are eligible to receive $9,608,065 in federal funding in Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne/JAG) program. The funding is being distributed to Maine through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). Senator Collins worked with a bipartisan group of senators to craft the legislation that became law last month.
A portion of the funding will be distributed directly to the State of Maine while the remainder will be distributed to local cities and towns.
The Byrne/JAG program gives local law enforcement agencies additional funding to support drug and gang task forces as well as other law enforcement programs.
"This is critical funding that will keep our streets safe," said Senator Collins. "The Byrne/JAG program is a tried and tested program that has served us well for more than two decades. Maine's law enforcement agencies have made great progress in their ongoing, collaborative, multi-jurisdictional approach to combating drug trafficking and violence in our state. Particularly at a time when a risk of adverse economic conditions may lead to increased crime, this funding will support our nation's finest in their efforts on the front lines, where they risk their lives daily keeping Americans safe."
The program has been supported by numerous law enforcement organizations including the National Narcotic Officers' Associations' Coalition, National Sheriffs' Association, National Association of Counties, National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors, Legal Action Center, National District Attorneys' Association, National HIDTA Directors Association, International Association of Chiefs of Police, Major County Sheriffs Association, National Criminal Justice Association, National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies, Major City Chiefs Association, National Troopers Coalition, State Association of Addiction Services, the National Crime Prevention Council and the Fraternal Order of Police.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Friday, March 6, 2009
Senator Collins receives Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award
Award is Navy’s highest civilian honor
In a ceremony in Washington, DC today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, received the Distinguished Public Service Award from Donald Winter, Secretary of the United States Navy. This award is the Navy’s highest civilian honor. Admiral Mike Miller presented medals and a citation to Senator Collins on behalf of the Navy.
The citation reads; “For exceptionally distinguished service to the Department of the Navy as a member of Congress and the Senate Committee on Armed Services for January 2006 to January 2009. Senator Collins’ selfless devotion to the Nation’s Sailors and Marines ensured they were provided the resources necessary to effectively conduct the Global War on Terrorism. Her courageous leadership, vision, and loyalty to the men and women of the Department of the Navy greatly contributed to their quality of life and helped create the most modern and highly trained fighting force in history. As a Member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, Senator Collins’ tireless advocacy helped maintain the Navy and Marine Corps team at the highest levels of combat readiness to meet the challenges of the 21st century. With grateful appreciation for her outstanding contributions to the Nation and the Navy and Marine Corps, Senator Collins is awarded the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award.”
“I am truly honored to receive this recognition,” said Senator Collins. “Serving on the Armed Services Committee and being an advocate for the men and women who serve in the United States Navy is a privilege. Maine has a long maritime tradition. I am particularly proud of the hard work and dedication of the shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works and the men and women who work at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. We are all very proud of the contributions the State of Maine makes to a strong Navy. This award means a great deal to me.”
In a ceremony in Washington, DC today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, received the Distinguished Public Service Award from Donald Winter, Secretary of the United States Navy. This award is the Navy’s highest civilian honor. Admiral Mike Miller presented medals and a citation to Senator Collins on behalf of the Navy.The citation reads; “For exceptionally distinguished service to the Department of the Navy as a member of Congress and the Senate Committee on Armed Services for January 2006 to January 2009. Senator Collins’ selfless devotion to the Nation’s Sailors and Marines ensured they were provided the resources necessary to effectively conduct the Global War on Terrorism. Her courageous leadership, vision, and loyalty to the men and women of the Department of the Navy greatly contributed to their quality of life and helped create the most modern and highly trained fighting force in history. As a Member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, Senator Collins’ tireless advocacy helped maintain the Navy and Marine Corps team at the highest levels of combat readiness to meet the challenges of the 21st century. With grateful appreciation for her outstanding contributions to the Nation and the Navy and Marine Corps, Senator Collins is awarded the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award.”
“I am truly honored to receive this recognition,” said Senator Collins. “Serving on the Armed Services Committee and being an advocate for the men and women who serve in the United States Navy is a privilege. Maine has a long maritime tradition. I am particularly proud of the hard work and dedication of the shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works and the men and women who work at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. We are all very proud of the contributions the State of Maine makes to a strong Navy. This award means a great deal to me.”
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Collins named Ranking Member of Financial Services subcommittee
SENATOR COLLINS NAMED RANKING MEMBER OF FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS SUBCOMMITTEE
Collins also to serve on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Transportation and Housing, Agriculture, and Interior and Environment Subcommittees
Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee today announced the subcommittee assignments for the 111th Congress.
Senator Collins was selected to serve on this powerful committee earlier this year. In addition, she will remain Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and as a member of both the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Select Senate Committee on Aging.
Senator Collins’ subcommittee assignments are as follows:
Financial Services and General Government, Ranking Member
Provides funding for numerous government agencies, many related to financial management and oversight, including:
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies
Determines funding of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and construction under the Department of Defense
Transportation, Housing, and Related Agencies
Provides funding for agencies under the Department of Transportation and the Department of Housing and Urban Development
Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies
Appropriates for programs in the Department of Agriculture, including agricultural research, food stamps, and rural development
Interior, Environment and Related Agencies
Primarily oversees funding of agencies under the Department of the Interior, including national parks
“As our nation’s financial system is in a crisis, my role as Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government is now more important than ever. I will be afforded a much greater input of how funding is allocated to our nation’s financial regulators. As a former Commissioner of Professional and Financial Regulation for the State of Maine, I welcome the opportunity to reform our country’s financial regulatory system and to determine what funding levels are required. Given the importance of small business to Maine’s economy, I also look forward to ensuring that the SBA has sufficient funds to help small businesses start up, grow, and create good jobs.
“My other subcommittee roles will also allow me to have greater input on funding of priorities that are important to Mainers, such as shipbuilding, transportation infrastructure, and veterans’ care, while also giving me the ability to continue pressing for the elimination of wasteful spending that exacerbates our federal deficit.”
Collins also to serve on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Transportation and Housing, Agriculture, and Interior and Environment Subcommittees
Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee today announced the subcommittee assignments for the 111th Congress.
Senator Collins was selected to serve on this powerful committee earlier this year. In addition, she will remain Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and as a member of both the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Select Senate Committee on Aging.
Senator Collins’ subcommittee assignments are as follows:
Financial Services and General Government, Ranking Member
Provides funding for numerous government agencies, many related to financial management and oversight, including:
- Small Business Administration
- Securities and Exchange Commission
- Commodities and Futures Trading Commission
- Consumer Products Safety Commission
- Government Services Administration
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies
Determines funding of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and construction under the Department of Defense
Transportation, Housing, and Related Agencies
Provides funding for agencies under the Department of Transportation and the Department of Housing and Urban Development
Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies
Appropriates for programs in the Department of Agriculture, including agricultural research, food stamps, and rural development
Interior, Environment and Related Agencies
Primarily oversees funding of agencies under the Department of the Interior, including national parks
“As our nation’s financial system is in a crisis, my role as Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government is now more important than ever. I will be afforded a much greater input of how funding is allocated to our nation’s financial regulators. As a former Commissioner of Professional and Financial Regulation for the State of Maine, I welcome the opportunity to reform our country’s financial regulatory system and to determine what funding levels are required. Given the importance of small business to Maine’s economy, I also look forward to ensuring that the SBA has sufficient funds to help small businesses start up, grow, and create good jobs.
“My other subcommittee roles will also allow me to have greater input on funding of priorities that are important to Mainers, such as shipbuilding, transportation infrastructure, and veterans’ care, while also giving me the ability to continue pressing for the elimination of wasteful spending that exacerbates our federal deficit.”
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Daily Bulldog: Federal stimulus package benefits New Sharon road project
from the Daily Bulldog:
Read the whole article >>
NEW SHARON - Thanks to the federal stimulus package, a construction road project on Route 27 will begin immediately.
The state’s Department of Transportation has listed among its projects to be completed since the federal infusion of funding earmarked for infrastructure upgrades was announced, the resurfacing of a 2.65 mile stretch of Route 27 from the York Hill Road intersection to the intersection of Route 2 & 27.
State Rep. Paul Gilbert, D-Jay, announced today that of the federal recovery package funds sent to Maine, a portion of MDOT’s share would go to the local project.
Read the whole article >>
Senator Collins announces $328,938 for four Maine fire departments
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, today announced that the Department of Homeland Security has awarded $328,398 in grant funding for four Maine fire departments. The funding is provided through the “Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program,” or FIRE Act.
“The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is an extremely critical source of funds for our fire and rescue personnel,” noted Senator Collins. “This grant will help provide Maine’s critical first responders with the equipment and skills to better serve their communities.”
The Springfield Fire Department will be awarded $137,750 in funding through the Vehicle Acquisition program. The program helps local departments purchase equipment such as pumpers, brush trucks, tankers/tenders, rescue vehicles, ambulances, quints, aerials, foam units, and fireboats.
Additionally, funding will be distributed to three other Maine fire departments through the Operations and Firefighting Safety Program, which consists of training, equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to the departments’ facilities.
• Wiscasset Fire Department will receive $77,900
• Prospect Volunteer Fire Department will receive $41,088
• Hermon Fire Department will receive $72,200
Senator Collins strongly supported the creation of the FIRE Act Grant program. These grants are awarded to fire departments across the United States to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, emergency medical service programs, and Fire Prevention and Safety programs, and to purchase new fire equipment.
“The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is an extremely critical source of funds for our fire and rescue personnel,” noted Senator Collins. “This grant will help provide Maine’s critical first responders with the equipment and skills to better serve their communities.”
The Springfield Fire Department will be awarded $137,750 in funding through the Vehicle Acquisition program. The program helps local departments purchase equipment such as pumpers, brush trucks, tankers/tenders, rescue vehicles, ambulances, quints, aerials, foam units, and fireboats.
Additionally, funding will be distributed to three other Maine fire departments through the Operations and Firefighting Safety Program, which consists of training, equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to the departments’ facilities.
• Wiscasset Fire Department will receive $77,900
• Prospect Volunteer Fire Department will receive $41,088
• Hermon Fire Department will receive $72,200
Senator Collins strongly supported the creation of the FIRE Act Grant program. These grants are awarded to fire departments across the United States to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, emergency medical service programs, and Fire Prevention and Safety programs, and to purchase new fire equipment.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
MPBN: Two Maine Health Centers to Get Stimulus Funds
from MPBN:
Maine's congressional delegation says two health centers in Maine will be receiving more than $2.5 million in stimulus funds. In a release today in conjunction with President Obama, Maine Senators Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe, and Representatives Mike Michaud and Chelie Pingree announced that $2,590,713 will be provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the health centers, which include the City of Portland's health center in Portland and the Penboscot Community Health Center in Bangor.
First stimulus project comes to Maine
U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement in response to the news that the Maine Department of Transportation has identified the first project to receive federal money distributed through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). Senator Collins worked with a bipartisan group of senators to craft the legislation that became law earlier in the month.
Maine DOT has prioritized the improvements to the 24-mile stretch of the northbound I-295, between Brunswick and Gardiner, as the first project to use this funding.
"I am pleased to see the state distribute this money quickly. The purpose of the stimulus is to get the money into the economy quickly by, among other things, beginning work on important transportation infrastructure projects. This will help create and save the jobs of our skilled and dedicated workforce. It is vital that we get these projects underway as soon as possible, and I look forward to seeing more of these stimulus funded project announcements soon."
In addition, as Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Senator Collins, along with Chairman Joseph Lieberman (I-D CT) will participate in a hearing next week that will examine how the federal government will account for the billions of dollars expected to be spent over the next two years as a result of the economic stimulus package and help ensure that strong accountability measures are in place and that the spending is as transparent as possible.
Among those scheduled to testify at the hearing, which will be held on Thursday, March 5, is Peter Orszag, Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Senator Collins said: "We have witnessed the collapse of the housing market, the unraveling of our nation's financial institutions, and the evaporation of trillions of dollars that were invested in the stock market and in people's retirement accounts. It is critical that we work to turn this economy around and create and save jobs, but do so with transparency and accountability. I opposed releasing the remaining TARP funds last month because the initial funds lacked the transparency and accountability that was needed to ensure that taxpayer dollars were spent wisely. I was appalled to learn that the financial institutions that benefited from the initial TARP funds were either unable or unwilling to publicly release information about how TARP dollars were spent. We cannot afford to make the same mistake with the economic stimulus package.
Senator Collins' committee's inquiry will focus on ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to prevent cost overruns as agencies enter into contracts to spend ARRA funds, that strict oversight of contractor performance occurs, that grant conditions are met, and that fraud is promptly prosecuted.
The Committee will also look at the challenges of presenting quick and accurate information about how the funds are being spent so that taxpayers may follow the process and determine if their money is being spent wisely and effectively.
The ARRA calls for a range of new and existing assets to help ensure the money is spent appropriately and efficiently. The bill provides extensive new funding for the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Inspectors General (IGs) in the federal agencies charged with distributing stimulus funds. The bill also creates a new Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board, headed by a presidential appointee, to coordinate and conduct oversight of stimulus spending across-the-board and provide regular reports to Congress and the public.
Furthermore, a new federal website, Recovery.gov, will allow the public to track where all the money is going, including disbursements at the state and local level, for an unprecedented level of transparency.
Maine DOT has prioritized the improvements to the 24-mile stretch of the northbound I-295, between Brunswick and Gardiner, as the first project to use this funding.
"I am pleased to see the state distribute this money quickly. The purpose of the stimulus is to get the money into the economy quickly by, among other things, beginning work on important transportation infrastructure projects. This will help create and save the jobs of our skilled and dedicated workforce. It is vital that we get these projects underway as soon as possible, and I look forward to seeing more of these stimulus funded project announcements soon."
In addition, as Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Senator Collins, along with Chairman Joseph Lieberman (I-D CT) will participate in a hearing next week that will examine how the federal government will account for the billions of dollars expected to be spent over the next two years as a result of the economic stimulus package and help ensure that strong accountability measures are in place and that the spending is as transparent as possible.
Among those scheduled to testify at the hearing, which will be held on Thursday, March 5, is Peter Orszag, Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Senator Collins said: "We have witnessed the collapse of the housing market, the unraveling of our nation's financial institutions, and the evaporation of trillions of dollars that were invested in the stock market and in people's retirement accounts. It is critical that we work to turn this economy around and create and save jobs, but do so with transparency and accountability. I opposed releasing the remaining TARP funds last month because the initial funds lacked the transparency and accountability that was needed to ensure that taxpayer dollars were spent wisely. I was appalled to learn that the financial institutions that benefited from the initial TARP funds were either unable or unwilling to publicly release information about how TARP dollars were spent. We cannot afford to make the same mistake with the economic stimulus package.
Senator Collins' committee's inquiry will focus on ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to prevent cost overruns as agencies enter into contracts to spend ARRA funds, that strict oversight of contractor performance occurs, that grant conditions are met, and that fraud is promptly prosecuted.
The Committee will also look at the challenges of presenting quick and accurate information about how the funds are being spent so that taxpayers may follow the process and determine if their money is being spent wisely and effectively.
The ARRA calls for a range of new and existing assets to help ensure the money is spent appropriately and efficiently. The bill provides extensive new funding for the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Inspectors General (IGs) in the federal agencies charged with distributing stimulus funds. The bill also creates a new Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board, headed by a presidential appointee, to coordinate and conduct oversight of stimulus spending across-the-board and provide regular reports to Congress and the public.
Furthermore, a new federal website, Recovery.gov, will allow the public to track where all the money is going, including disbursements at the state and local level, for an unprecedented level of transparency.
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