GAO to Investigate Anti-Terrorist Grant Program

GAO to Investigate Anti-Terrorist Grant Program

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has approved a recent request by Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (CA-05) and six of her House and Senate colleagues for a review of the criteria and eligibility process for the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant program. This review comes after the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) January announcement that revised guidelines for the UASI program may make both Sacramento and San Diego ineligible for the grant funds next year. Joining the Congresswoman in placing this request are Senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein, House Committee on Homeland Security Ranking Member Bennie Thompson, and Representatives Bob Filner, Mike Thompson and Susan Davis.

"I have seen first hand the importance of this funding for the safety and security of Sacramento and have been working to secure these necessary funds." Congresswoman Matsui continued, "As the capital of the largest state in the nation, it is common sense that Sacramento should be eligible for funding to protect its citizens from potential threats. Unfortunately, repeated attempts for answers from DHS have left my colleagues and me seriously questioning DHS's risk assessment process that put Sacramento's anti-terrorist funding in jeopardy. I look forward to GAO's report and am hopeful that it will shed light on this very important matter."

http://matsui.house.gov/Newsroom.asp?ARTICLE2939=7106