NYS: $110 million in state funding to strengthen emergency communications for first responders

State-funded programs support emergency communication systems across state by strengthening emergency response capabilities

Submitted by the Office of Gov. Kathy Hochul

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $110 million in state funding to improve emergency communications systems and enhance public safety call-taking and dispatching capabilities through the combined FY 2025 and FY2026 Statewide Interoperable Communications (SICG) and Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP) Operations Grant programs.

“Every moment counts in an emergency, and making sure our communications equipment is ready when we need it is vital to keeping New Yorkers safe,” Hochul said. “Public safety is always my top priority, and this funding will go a long way to strengthen our emergency capabilities in every part of the state.”

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Terry O’Leary said, “Communications is key during emergencies, and our first responders must have the most advanced equipment and technology to ensure a reliable communications system. This funding is vital to support our partners’ efforts to modernize, upgrade and maintain their emergency communications systems, and will make our communities safer by enhancing emergency response across our state.”

Through the SICG-Formula Grant program, $90 million is being awarded to support local governments’ efforts to bolster communications networks through land mobile radio (LMR) systems, expand access to communications-focused training and exercises, and maintain communications equipment. Locally, the following funds were awarded:

The PSAP Operations Grant program provides funding to support county 911 centers by ensuring personnel are prepared as they respond to calls for service. PSAPs can use funding to support current operations as well as develop systems needed to implement Next Generation 911 (NG911). Through this program, $20 million is being awarded. Locally, awards include:

New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario said, “Counties operate the 911 centers and emergency communications networks that New Yorkers depend on in their most urgent moments. This $110 million investment will help counties invest in the tools to answer that call and keep response times low, when every second counts. NYSAC thanks Gov. Hochul and our partners in the Legislature for continuing to invest in the local emergency communication systems that keep our first responders connected and our communities safe.”

State Sen. April N.M. Baskin said, “Our first responders deserve state-of-the-art communications systems and technology to do their jobs safely and protect our communities. I thank Gov. Hochul for delivering more than $3.2 million to Erie County to strengthen emergency communications because, when someone calls 911, every second matters. These investments will help ensure our police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel and 911 dispatchers have the resources they need to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively.”

Assembly member Karen McMahon said, "Reliable emergency communications saves lives, and this investment will help our first responders have the tools they need when every second counts. I'm grateful to Gov. Hochul for delivering this significant funding to strengthen emergency communications throughout NYS, including over $2.7 million here in Erie County. This will enhance the technology and infrastructure that police, fire, EMS and dispatchers rely on every day, making our communities safer and improving coordination during emergencies."

Assembly member Jon Rivera said, “Reliable emergency communications save lives. Whether it’s a major storm, a public safety emergency, or a routine call for assistance, first responders need the tools and technology to communicate seamlessly across jurisdictions. This $110 million investment will strengthen local emergency communications systems, modernize critical infrastructure, and ensure dispatchers and first responders have the resources they need to protect our communities. New York state is prioritizing public safety and making investments that will help keep New Yorkers safe when they need help most.”