FY09 BJA Congressionally Directed Funding

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The National Forensic Science Technology Center (NFSTC) will deliver services that address forensic training needs within the law enforcement community. The will provide training on topics such as Biological DNA Screening for Law Enforcement, Tactical Crime Scene Investigation, Digital Forensics Triage, and Medical Examiner Training, as well as infrastructure and technology support. NFSTC will provide opportunities for numerous participants and help them to meet their training and continuing education requirements and forensic knowledge needs. The training opportunities will be offered in various formats such as online instruction and traditional training classes that provide an opportunity to develop hands-on skills under the tutelage of an experienced training expert. The remaining training projects will be delivered via the web in order to make critical training available to the widest possible range of law enforcement agencies across the country. The training programs will be offered at no charge to law enforcement officers or agencies.

NCA/NCF