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House Passes $30M Increase to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program in Light of Rise in Anti-Semitism
Edited by: TJVNews.com
A major Jewish organization has expressed gratitude to the House of Representatives for passing a $30 million increase to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). This increase brings the total funding for fiscal year 2025 to $335 million. However, the group cautioned that this increase falls short of what is needed to address the growing security demands of Jewish organizations and other nonprofits amidst rising anti-Semitism.
The bipartisan amendment to increase the NSGP funding was cosponsored by Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX) and Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), and it received broad support across party lines. The amendment reflects a recognition of the critical need for enhanced security measures for vulnerable nonprofit institutions, particularly in light of recent spikes in hate crimes and violent incidents targeting Jewish communities.
Nathan Diament, Executive Director of Public Policy at the Orthodox Union, emphasized both appreciation for the increase and the pressing need for further action.
“We are grateful for the $30 million increase to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) that passed today, but caution Congress that $335 million is a far cry from what Jewish institutions need to combat the dangerous anti-Semitism sweeping the nation,” Diament stated. His remarks underscore the Orthodox Union’s ongoing concern about the adequacy of current funding levels in providing sufficient protection for Jewish institutions.
The call for increased funding is set against a backdrop of escalating anti-Semitic incidents across the country. Diament highlighted a recent incident in Los Angeles, where violent protestors targeted a synagogue, as a stark example of the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Such incidents illustrate the vulnerabilities faced by Jewish schools, synagogues, and community centers, and the critical role that federal funding plays in ensuring their safety.
“When violent protestors swarm a synagogue in Los Angeles it is abundantly clear that Congress must do more to meet the urgency of the moment. Every dollar approved by Congress goes towards making sure Jewish schools, synagogues, and community centers have the resources to protect lives and prevent tragedy,” Diament said. His comments reflect a broader call to action for lawmakers to prioritize the security of Jewish communities.
The Orthodox Union has urged both the House and the Senate to collaborate on further increasing the available NSGP funds for 2025. The organization argues that the current funding, while appreciated, is insufficient to meet the heightened security needs of Jewish institutions across the nation.
“We urge the House and the Senate to work together to increase available NSGP funds for 2025,” Diament added. This appeal underscores the organization’s commitment to advocating for robust security measures that can effectively counter the threats posed by anti-Semitism and other forms of hate.
