Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Planning and Training Grants

​The grant application period is in the spring of each year, dependent on the timing of federal appropriations/announcement.

HMEP Planning and Training Grants Program Overview

Federal Hazardous Material Law authorizes the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) to provide assistance to public sector employees through planning and training grants to states, territories, and Native American tribes for emergency response.

The purpose of this grant program is to increase effectiveness in safely handling hazardous materials accidents and incidents, enhance implementation of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 (EPCRA), and encourage a comprehensive approach to emergency training and planning by incorporating the unique challenges of responses to transportation situations.

The U.S. DOT Research and Special Programs Administration, under a program that began in 1993, provides a reimbursable grant to every state to assist in hazardous materials response planning and related training activities.

Are You Eligible?

Eligible entities are all county governments within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

How Can These Funds be Used?

These funds assist in hazardous materials response planning and related training activities.

States are required to apply each year for the funding. Of funding received, 75 percent is earmarked for local planning and training activities.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted electronically in the Electronic Single Application.

What to Expect after Applying

Awards are determined by a formula. Award notifications are made to local level after PEMA receives the formal award from the federal agency.