The Director of the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (referred to in this subchapter as the “COPS Director”) is authorized to make grants to States, units of local government, and Indian tribes for the purposes described in paragraphs (5) through (9) of subsection (b).
The Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance (referred to in this subchapter as the “BJA Director”) is authorized to make grants to States, units of local government, and Indian tribes for the purposes described in paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (b).
An entity that receives a subaward or contract under subsection (c) may use such funds to provide services or benefits described under subsection (b) to 1 or more schools.
In awarding grants under this subchapter, the COPS Director and the BJA Director shall give preferential consideration, if feasible, to an application from a jurisdiction that has a demonstrated need for improved security, has a demonstrated need for financial assistance, has evidenced the ability to make the improvements for which the grant amounts are sought, and will use evidence-based strategies and programs, such as those identified by the Comprehensive School Safety Initiative of the Department of Justice.
In awarding grants under this subchapter, the COPS Director and the BJA shall each ensure, to the extent practicable, an equitable geographic distribution among the regions of the United States and among urban, suburban, and rural areas.
The COPS Director and the BJA Director may each reserve not more than 2 percent from amounts appropriated to carry out this subchapter for administrative costs.