U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono, a Hawaii Democrat, announced Wednesday that Hawaii will receive $5.5 million under the Byrne-Justice Assistance Grant program to assist state and county law officials as they combat the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.
“Our state and local law enforcement and first responders have been on the front lines with our health care professionals in confronting this pandemic, and they need the appropriate tools, equipment and resources to keep themselves safe as they assist others,” Hirono said. “This funding will help ensure that these first responders are able to continue protecting our community during this challenging time.”
Under the terms of the grant, state and county governments can use JAG funding to support purchases of personal protective equipment, hire additional officers, pay overtime for officers working long hours, conduct training for officers and address the medical needs of inmates in state and local prisons, among other critical uses.