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New York state and city law enforcement agencies are expressing serious concerns over significant cuts to antiterrorism programs planned by the Trump Administration. The NYPD, FDNY, Joint Task Force Empire Shield, and Governor Kathy Hochul's office have all criticized the proposed reductions. The cuts include the elimination of federal funding for New York's 12-certified bomb squads, with the NYPD alone facing an $80 million reduction in Homeland Security funding. A department spokesperson described the move as "incredibly dangerous," highlighting the risk it poses to all Americans.
Governor Hochul has been vocal about the cuts, which amount to an 86% reduction in counterterrorism funding, dropping New York’s allocation to $30 million. She has called the decision "utterly shocking" and accused the administration of "literally defunding the police." Hochul, along with New York Attorney General Letitia James, has joined a multi-state coalition to seek an injunction against the cuts. The funding, provided by FEMA through the Homeland Security Grant Program, is crucial for intelligence operations, transit hub security, equipment purchases, and training.
According to Governor Hochul's office, the cuts will have a direct impact on public safety agencies throughout the state, including a projected $100 million cut to the NYPD, $15 million to the FDNY, and $13 million to Joint Task Force Empire Shield. The Port Authority, which manages the World Trade Center, is also set to lose $9 million in federal funding.
Senator Charles Schumer criticized the cuts, stating that they put the safety of New Yorkers at risk. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Attorney General Letitia James have also voiced their opposition, emphasizing the importance of the Homeland Security Grant Program in maintaining public safety.
As reported by Yahoo News, the NYPD has thwarted several terror plots in recent years, including an incident involving an ex-con building bombs on the Williamsburg Bridge. The department warns that the loss of funding will severely impact its ability to prevent future attacks.
Politico reports that FEMA defended the funding cuts, citing a need to align grant programs with the administration’s priorities and reduce taxpayer burden. However, critics argue that the cuts disproportionately affect New York, the nation's top terrorist target.
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