SIA Supports Smart Cities Bill That Prioritizes Security

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) has introduced bipartisan legislation to establish a smart cities grant program promoting technological innovation, mobility, smart transportation systems and security. S. 1939, the Moving and Fostering Innovation to Revolutionize Smarter Transportation Act (or the Moving FIRST Act), authorizes $100 million in matching grant funds annually through fiscal year 2024 to be awarded to eligible cities and communities that apply for such funds.

The Security Industry Association (SIA) supports the Moving FIRST Act since it instructs the U.S. Department of Transportation to prioritize grant applications that incorporate relevant security solutions and address emergency situations based on the scope and necessity of the smart city project, among other conditions.

“In terms of smart cities projects, public safety and security technologies are essential components,” said SIA CEO Don Erickson. “The Moving FIRST Act recognizes the importance of these technologies in the project planning phases. ”

Sen. Cortez Masto listed SIA, along with SIA member Panasonic of North America and other industry leaders, such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Technology Engagement Center (C_TEC), CompTIA, CTIA and the Smart Cities Council, as supporters of the Moving FIRST Act in her recent press announcement.