The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has announced an $18 million grant to be allocated to local and state governments, universities, tribal communities, and non-profit groups. The funding aims to further the education of first responders.

According to a DOT news release, the funds will be employed to bolster local environmental safety initiatives that encourage the development of new pipeline technologies, educate the public on local safety measures, and provide training for first responders. PHMSA's primary goal is to protect the environment and individuals who handle hazardous materials integral to our daily lives.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, "Local authorities and emergency responders are often the first on the scene after a pipeline or hazmat transportation incident, and the Biden-Harris administration is proud to support them with additional training and resources. The $18 million we’re investing in training, education, and technology will help keep our country’s first responders, and the communities they support, safe."

Approximately $7.6 million will be distributed for pipeline safety which includes $3.1 million for the Pipeline Emergency Response Grant Program, $2 million for the Technical Assistance Grant Program, $1.5 million for the State Damage Prevention Grant Program and $1 million for the One-Call Grant Program as per the news release. Hazardous grant programs will receive a total of $10.4 million that comprises $4 million for the Hazardous Materials Instructor Training Grant Program and $1.9 million for the Hazardous Materials State Inspection Grant Program.

PHMSA Deputy Administrator Tristan Brown stated, "PHMSA’s grant programs are designed to give local communities the resources they need to face unique safety challenges involving hazardous materials and pipelines. We are committed to supporting safety at the local level through these grant opportunities."