Governor Phil Bredesen today announced his plans to allocate $4 million as part of his upcoming budget proposal to take the first steps toward implementation of a statewide emergency preparedness system for Tennessee.
The money, which will be included in the Governor’s budget presentation to the General Assembly, will allow Tennessee to better compete with other states in seeking federal grant money for homeland security projects.
“Almost five years ago, the attacks of September 11th showed us how critical solid communication is to disaster response. Last year, Hurricane Katrina harshly reminded us once again,” Bredesen said. “That’s why, this year, I want us to take a hard look at updating our preparedness plan to include a system that will allow all of our first responders to be on the same page in the event of an emergency.”
It is estimated that the first phase of a statewide interoperability system would cost approximately $25 million, with all but the state’s $4 million initial investment coming from the federal government. The money will be used to secure expert advice on how to facilitate communication among all of the state’s first responders, in addition to drawing down federal money to begin building out the system.
In addition, as part of his examination of the state’s preparedness plan, Bredesen has invited U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Russel L. Honore, the highly-respected leader of Joint Task Force Katrina, to visit Tennessee. Honore, who is credited with turning around the federal government’s response to the devastating storm, is expected to join Bredesen in events in Memphis and Nashville next month.
“We all know this is an uncertain time for our country and our state when it comes to ensuring our safety,” Bredesen said. “But I believe the future is very much in our own hands, and this is an important step in that direction.”

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