Senators Propose $1 Billion for Security Grants

Why this is here: The proposed bill would increase funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program to $1 billion, a substantial rise from its current annual funding of about $300 million.

Senators James Lankford and Jacky Rosen introduced the Jewish American Security Act in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday. The bipartisan bill responds to increasing attacks against Jewish people and institutions in the United States.

Its main provision allocates roughly $1 billion to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Currently, this program receives about $300 million each year and funds security improvements for religious groups and nonprofits.

Recent attacks include a shooting at an Islamic Center in San Diego and an assault on a synagogue in Michigan. The bill also directs the Department of Education to create regulations addressing antisemitism on college campuses. It would require social media companies to share their policies for moderating antisemitic content.

However, the bill’s effectiveness may be limited by rules added during the Trump administration. These rules prevent organizations with certain diversity or immigration-related programs from receiving grant funding.

Jewish Federations of North America are offering guidance to other faiths on applying for these grants, though past application rates vary. The work to secure communities and address rising antisemitism continues.