Wes Hickman (202-224-5972) or Kevin Bishop (864-250-1417)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded the state $20.3 million to enhance preparations for a bio-terror attack. The funds come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and from HHS’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). CDC will provide the state $13.2 million to strengthen public health preparedness for bioterrorism, outbreaks of infectious disease, and public health emergencies. The remaining $7.1 million from HRSA is to be used for hospital preparedness and to develop surge capacity to deal with mass casualty events. The funds are part of a $1.4 billion package to states. “During these difficult times, it’s critical our state be prepared to deal with a bio-terror attack,” said Graham. “Terrorists groups have shown an interest in obtaining biological weapons and no one doubts their willingness to use them. It’s important our medical personnel have the proper response plan and training to deal with this real threat.” In March of this year, Graham announced $20 million dollars from HHS for South Carolina during an earlier round of bio-terror preparedness funding. ####