U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-08), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security today announced that $1,060,774 in federal funding has been allocated for the State of New Jersey to improve the reliability and accuracy of state government issued identification documentation.

“Fortifying our identification system is critical to security in New Jersey and all over the country,” stated Pascrell.  “As the September 11th Commission pointed out, ‘for terrorists, travel documents are as important as weapons.’  With this new federal funding, states will be better prepared to meet the federal guidelines intended to mitigate homeland security and economic threats that come with identity theft.”         

"Since its formation, the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) has prided itself on the many advancements that have allowed New Jersey to become a leader in secure motor vehicle services," said Sharon A. Harrington, MVC Chief Administrator. "Through the support of our state's Congressional delegation, the MVC has benefitted from critical federal funding that will ensure that New Jersey continues to be at the forefront of homeland security efforts." 

Specifically, the funding has been allocated by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through the Drivers License Security Grant Program (DLSGP).  New Jersey’s allotment comes from $48,575,000 being granted nationally to state motor vehicle entities.

“A strong partnership between the federal government and state motor vehicle agencies is a worthy endeavor as long it upholds civil liberties.  I will keep a watchful eye over how the Department of Homeland Security administers the program and continue fighting to eliminate identity fraud.”   

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