DHS Increases Funding For REAL ID Grant Program, Extends Application Deadline

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced an increase in the total amount of funding available for REAL ID implementation and an extension in the deadline for FY 2008 REAL ID Demonstration Grant Program applications.

REAL ID sets uniform standards that enhance the integrity and reliability of state-issued drivers’ licenses and identification cards, strengthens issuance capabilities, and increases security at drivers’ license and identification card production facilities.

DHS is making an additional $48.5 million available to assist states with REAL ID implementation. Previously funded at $31.3 million, the additional grants funding was authorized on Dec. 26, 2007 with the signing of the Omnibus appropriations bill. These dedicated grants are now available to help states improve driver’s license and identification card issuance capabilities and facilitate collaboration among states in the development of more secure systems that verify an applicant’s identity while protecting their personal privacy.

DHS recognizes that states will need sufficient time to apply for this increased funding opportunity and is extending the REAL ID grant applications deadline until March 7. States competing for REAL ID grants are encouraged to submit proposals that demonstrate how other states will benefit from REAL ID compliance. For example, through capabilities like enhanced verification systems that check the validity of documents presented at Department of Motor Vehicle counters.

REAL ID was a core 9/11 Commission finding and mandated by Congress in the REAL ID Act of 2005. DHS announced the REAL ID final rule January 11.

Featured

  • Maximizing Your Security Budget This Year

    7 Ways You Can Secure a High-Traffic Commercial Security Gate  

    Your commercial security gate is one of your most powerful tools to keep thieves off your property. Without a security gate, your commercial perimeter security plan is all for nothing. Read Now

  • Protecting Data is Critical

    To say that the Internet of Things (IoT) has become a part of everyday life would be a dramatic understatement. At this point, you would be hard-pressed to find an electronic device that is not connected to the internet. Read Now

  • Mobile Access Adoption

    Smartphones and other mobile devices have had a profound impact on how the world securely accesses the workplace and its services. The growing adoption of mobile wallets and the new generation of users is compounding this effect. Read Now

  • Changing Mindsets

    We have come a long way from the early days of fuzzy analog CCTV systems. During that time, we have had to migrate from analog to digital signals. When IP-based network cameras arrived, they opened a new world of quality and connectivity but also introduced plenty of challenges. Thankfully, network devices today have become smart enough to discover themselves and even self-configure to some degree. While some IT expertise is certainly required, things are much smoother these days. The biggest change is in how fast security cameras and supporting infrastructure are evolving. Read Now

Featured Cybersecurity

Webinars

New Products

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area. 3

  • 4K Video Decoder

    3xLOGIC’s VH-DECODER-4K is perfect for use in organizations of all sizes in diverse vertical sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality, education and commercial premises. 3

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file. 3