Change in Terrorism Funds Distribution

New York, NY —

The Department of Homeland Security is changing the way federal terrorism funds will be distributed. WNYC's Arun Venugopal reports.

REPORTER: Homeland Security chief Michael Chertoff says cities will be held to a more rigorous standard when they ask for money from the department's Urban Areas Security Initiative. That's the money specifically set aside for areas at a higher risk of terrorist attack. This year $765 million is being set aside and 35 areas are eligible, including those at risk of a natural disaster or health crisis.

Mayor Bloomberg expressed support for the plan, saying it will do away with the pork-barrel approach of the past, but he has reservations.

BLOOMBERG: I think we should keep moneys for the risks of terrorism and the risks of natural disasters separate.

REPORTER: The department of homeland security will announce how much each community gets in June. The change only applies to the funding controlled by the Bush Administration. All 50 states will continue to receive anti-terror money as mandated by Congress.