Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano announced approximately $10 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for a new inline baggage handling system with enhanced explosive detection technology at Dayton International Airport—a project which will accelerate the passenger check-in process and enhance airport security.

The departments of Homeland Security and State announced that senior officials on the United States-Mexico High-Level Consultative Commission on Telecommunications (HLCC) have signed a bilateral telecommunications agreement to support a new cross border communications network for public safety and law enforcement organizations focused on strengthening border security.

Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano, FEMA Administrator g Fugate and the Ad Council launched a new series of Ready Campaign public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to encourage all Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies, kicking off September’s National Preparedness Month.

Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano met with Washington, D.C., Mayor Adrian Fenty, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine on September 1, 2009 to discuss coordination on emergency preparedness and response efforts in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano and FEMA Administrator Fugate marked the beginning of the sixth annual National Preparedness Month—focusing on becoming better prepared for and more resilient in the face of emergencies of all kinds.