Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs is pushing for the speedy resolution of a snag that's holding up $69 million earmarked for border security and public safety. According to the Office of the Arizona Governor, this delay comes as a consequence of a federal court stay on a prior order which had mandated the release of these critical funds, and is a result of a newly imposed "manual review process" on the grants, which adds 60-90 days onto each reimbursement request.
"Delaying critical reimbursements to state and local law enforcement who support federal border security mandates and statewide drug and human trafficking interdiction efforts endangers public safety and undermines the security of Arizona and the nation," Governor Hobbs said. These programs now hang in the balance, forcing local authorities into tough financial decisions on what public safety measures to prioritize due to the funding shortfall.
Funding for essential programs, including Operation Stonegarden, which aids law enforcement agencies with overtime pay and equipment for border security operations, is in limbo, with alerts regarding this delay communicated to subrecipients last week by the Arizona Department of Homeland Security (AZDOHS). As reported, these funds are usually instrumental for ongoing statewide and local public safety initiatives, supporting sectors ranging from the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs to municipal police forces.
In reacting to the setback, Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels emphasized the importance of these programs. "All levels of government work best when they prioritize community missions. Public safety is paramount for our Arizona communities and beyond. These prevention and enforcement programs are dependent upon federal funding. Unfortunately, the delay in receiving these funds hinder our interdiction capabilities. I appreciate our partnerships and would encourage our federal leaders to expedite these public safety funds," Dannels told Governor Hobbs’ office. Governor Hobbs has consistently called for the immediate release of the funds since March 11 and continues to engage in dialogue with federal agencies seeking a way forward.
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