Calif. Sen. Boxer Cosponsers Bill to Help Protect High-Risk Non-Profits from Terrorist Attacks

U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) has added her support to the High Risk Nonprofit Security Enhancement Act (S. 2275) to help protect non-profits from terrorist attacks.

Introduced by Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) last month, the bill would provide federal assistance to non-profit organizations that are at a high risk of terrorist attack. It would also help local police departments in areas with high concentrations of high-risk non-profit groups.

“I am pleased to cosponsor this important bill to provide the resources needed to help keep our non-profits safer from terrorist attacks,” Boxer stated.

The legislation would provide assistance to non-profit organizations to help enhance security such as concrete barriers and “hardening” of windows and doors. Funding may also be used for technical assistance to assess needs, develop plans and train personnel. Local police departments would be able to receive aid for the costs incurred for guarding local buildings and community centers that might qualify as high-risk. The funding would come from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

In addition to the support of a bipartisan group of 12 Senators including Boxer, the High Risk Nonprofit Security Enhancement Act is endorsed by the United Jewish Communities, American Red Cross, United Way, American Hospital Association, American Association of Museums, National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, American Jewish Congress, Theatre Communications Group, and YMCA of the USA.