Fla. Division of Emergency Management: Critical Investments in Preparedness Support Florida Disaster Response

TALLAHASSEE, Florida, June 3 -- The Florida Division of Emergency Management issued the following news release:

With Governor Ron DeSantis' approval of the 2021-2022 Budget, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) continues to build a more resilient Florida that is prepared for any disaster due to vital funding secured this year.

"Through significant investments in preparedness, Governor DeSantis has ensured Florida can respond to any disaster while coordinating with federal, state, local and private-sector partners for years to come," said FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie.

"I am proud of the accomplishments we have had this year, in the midst of a global pandemic, and I look forward to continuing to work with Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature as we support the resiliency of communities across Florida."

Key highlights from the FY 2021-2022 budget include:

* $100 million to construct a new State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Tallahassee. The EOC serves as the communications and command center for reporting emergencies and coordinating state response activities and this investment will support future resiliency and disaster response for years to come.

* $187 million in state match is provided for the non-federal state cost share associated with authorized federal funding to eligible local and state recipients for reimbursement of the response and recovery cost, as well as state management costs relating to federally declared disasters. This funding is used to cover costs associated with recovery efforts for up to 16 disasters, including Hurricanes Irma and Michael.

* $326 million to continue Florida's response efforts for the pandemic.