KC Reporter

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson revealed that the Missouri Department of Public Safety has allocated $5 million in grants to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement, fire service, and EMS providers in class three counties across Missouri. The funding aims to equip first responders with essential tools to effectively handle emergencies and ensure the safety of their communities.

Governor Parson expressed his appreciation for the dedication of Missouri's first responders, stating, "Across our state, Missouri first responders bravely respond to emergencies, including floods, droughts, train derailments, traffic accidents, and beyond. In times of crisis, we call on them, and we could not be more proud."

Highlighting the significance of the grants, Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten remarked, "Missouri first responders rush toward danger no matter the limitations or age of their equipment. The $5 million in funding we’re providing means more Missourians facing life-threatening emergencies will be met by responders using up-to-date equipment, trained with modern devices, and using interoperable radios that make for better communications. This funding will make a difference in communities across the state."

The grants will cover a range of equipment vital for first responders, including patrol vehicles, body cameras, firefighter turnout gear, ambulances, cardiac monitors, and emergency communications radios. The allocation also encompasses items such as self-contained breathing apparatus, thermal imaging cameras, automatic compression devices, and more, tailored to the specific needs of fire service agencies and EMS providers.

The distribution of grants is detailed as follows:

- Fire Safety: 35 fire service agencies will benefit from over $1,380,000 for equipment such as turnout gear, firefighting tanker trucks, and interoperable radios.

- EMS: 18 emergency medical service providers will receive over $2,880,000 for equipment like ambulances, cardiac monitors, and training mannequins.

- Law Enforcement: 17 agencies are set to obtain over $735,000 for equipment, including patrol vehicles, body cameras, and interoperable communications radios.

Governor Parson's initiative to allocate ARPA funds for these grants underscores his commitment to bolstering Missouri's public safety efforts. The grants, made possible through Missouri House Bill 20 Section 20.150, require a 50% local match, ensuring shared responsibility in enhancing emergency response capabilities. The Missouri Department of Public Safety serves as the grant administrator for these crucial investments in Missouri's first responders.