Effective training techniques and programs, especially in regards to public safety, often need special or alternative funding. As states, counties, and cities undergo budget reductions, what are the available options for maintaining funds for training? What impact do these options present with regard to public safety? Based upon this week’s assigned readings, compare and contrast two (2) alternate means for funding law enforcement training. What restrictions or limitations are placed on departments by the funding agency? Are there any funding sources that go untapped? Why?

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(Am) Over the last few years, the economy has been in a downfall. Many agencies across the nation have been plagued with budget reductions. Usually, one of the first areas to cut is the training. There are options for agencies to maintain the funds for training. For example, agencies could apply for grants. Another option would be to look at their budget to see if there are some items are absolutely necessary. These options could have a positive impact when looking at public safety. This is said because officers are still being trained to keep the public safe. Their skills will be sharpened or may learn new tactics. When budgets are affected, the public typically expects officers to do more, even though they do not have as much funding. One of the types of funding available is the Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP). CEDAP is put on through Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. This program is geared towards those who are the police, firefighters, or EMS; the equipment is to be used for “improving their ability and capacity to respond to a major critical incident or work with other first responders” (Bastain, 2007).  In addition to applying for grants, agencies may be able to collaborate with other agencies to help with training. For example, Fort Pierce Police Department in Florida partnered with the Port St. Lucie Police Department and the St. Lucie Sheriff’s Office to share any information that may help with future issues (Spagnoli, 2007).  Some restrictions or limitations that may be placed by the funding agency is what the department may be able to purchase with the funding. It is more than likely that funding sources may go untapped. Agencies may not be aware of all of the different kinds of grants or if they are qualified to apply.

Bastain, J. (2007, September 1). Equipment and training for the taking. Retrieved from officer.com: http://www.officer.com/article/10249525/equipment-and-training-for-the-taking

Spagnoli, L. (2007, June 15). Home field Advantage. Retrieved from officer.com: http://www.officer.com/article/10249733/home-field-advantage