Security integrators and dealers are presented with new opportunities after the recently-passed American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 has allocated a lump sum of $53.6 billion to the U.S. Department of Education.
While the measure contains no specific line-item funding for the life safety/security industry, the grants offer schools and universities across the country the ability to bring these technologies up to date.
The law does specify uses for which school districts and colleges may use the money, and includes the "modernization, renovation and repair" of public school facilities and instruction, research or student housing for colleges.
The grants can be used for compliance with fire and safety codes, including the installation of alarm systems, as well as modernizations, renovations and repairs that ensure schools are prepared for emergencies, such as improving building infrastructure to accommodate security measures.
National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA)-supported language was included in the $819 billion stimulus bill for the professional installation of fire/life-safety alarms in schools and universities. The association is encouraging its members to contact local school districts and area colleges and universities to present products and services for related projects.
Other Recent News
May 22, 2012
Eaton Corp., a diversified industrial manufacturer, announced this week it has agreed to purchase Cooper Industries for $11.8 billion.
May 15, 2012
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has launched a recruitment campaign to increase the number of code enforcers participating on its technical committees.
April 24, 2012
The Board of Trustees here approved a false fire alarm ordinance that will require repeat offenders to pay $750 for each false alarm.
April 10, 2012
The Security Industry Association (SIA), in conjunction with several other groups, is supporting bipartisan legislation reintroduced by Congressman Jim Matheson (D-Utah) and Congressman Charlie Bass (R-N.H.) to increase the use of life-saving residential carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.
March 22, 2012
The National Training Center (NTC) has completed the transition to computer-based testing (CBT) for NICET Fire Alarm exams.