MU to receive funds for rapid response plans

U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) announced last week that the U.S. House of Representatives approved a Defense Appropriations conference report for fiscal year 2008 that includes awarding $1 million for the Rapid Response Database Systems Initiative at Monmouth University in West Long Branch.

The Rapid Response Database Systems Initiative at Monmouth University was established to enable early and enhanced response capabilities in the event of terrorist attacks, according to a press release from Pallone’s office.

The $1 million Pallone secured will allow the University to build on their work by developing a software system that can be used throughout New Jersey and the nation to most effectively ensure a rapid response to all hazards, whether natural, man-made or through terrorism.

The program will enable local communities to create and maintain their own exercises and plans of action custom tailored to their location and needs.

“The Rapid Response Database Systems Initiative at Monmouth University is unique in our state, and offers great educational opportunities to the students and faculty who work on it,” Pallone said in the release.

“It also provides a great benefit to our state and the nation by developing a much-needed hazard response system that allows communities to be prepared for quick action in the event of an emergency,” he said.

Pallone added that he hopes the funding will allow Monmouth University to build on the expertise of their existing center and move forward with plans developed in their past work with the U. S. Department of Defense.

Pallone requested the funds for the project earlier this year, according to the release.

The conference report reconciles differences between House and Senate bills that were passed earlier this year, according to the press release. The final legislation now goes to the president’s desk for his signature.