WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Cory Booker D-N.J., member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate expressing deep concerns regarding FEMA’s preliminary FY2015 Annual Risk Assessment and Profile of New Jersey. The assessment would lower New Jersey’s threat score and therefore could also decrease the state’s access to FEMA preparedness grant funding.
“This loss will directly affect the state’s ability to invest in strategic preventative measures and protective activities. Therefore, as FEMA completes its final assessment, I request FEMA consider a reevaluation of the downgrade. Given its population density, infrastructure of national significance, chemical plants, and refineries, New Jersey does not merit a reduced threat score,” Sen. Booker wrote.
The letter continues, “As you are aware, FEMA grants contribute to and enhance New Jersey’s security and preparedness through strategic investments in critical infrastructure, law enforcement, and preventative measures designed to combat terrorism. As the most densely populated state in the nation – with 565 municipalities and 591 school districts – these preparedness grants are invaluable to public safety in New Jersey.”
