"The events of Sept. 11 emphasize the valuable role first responders and government officials play in coordinating a proper response when massive loss of life occurs," Grassley said. "Sadly, most Americans and government agencies are not prepared to deal with this problem. The National Mass Fatalities Institute is specifically designed to anticipate and meet these needs."
Approximately half of the funds Grassley is requesting would be used for programming costs associated with educating federal, state and local officials to properly respond to incidents involving mass fatalities. Grassley said training would focus on working with the victims' families, the physical aspects of mass death, the needs of rescuers and coordination of relief agencies.
The other $1.3 million would be used for construction of an area-wide emergency operations center, a state-of-the-art instructional communications center, and simulated and real environments for hands-on instructor training.
Two years ago, Grassley secured $400,000 in federal funding to get the National Mass Fatalities Institute started. Last year, he helped secure an additional $700,000 for the project.
"This is an important and unique program and we are fortunate that it is located right here in Iowa," Grassley said. "The institute will play an important role in working with communities, businesses and government agencies across the country in the proper handling of mass fatalities incidents."
Grassley's letter was sent to Sens. Tom Harkin of Iowa and Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania, who as chairman and ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services and Education are responsible for drafting the federal government's spending plan for projects related to those areas in the next fiscal year. The appropriations process begins each spring and is typically completed at the end of each congressional session.