New York state is sending $20 million in grant money to eligible counties in order to strengthen emergency communications systems, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Friday said. 

The money is being made available through a targeted grant program, which provides reimbursements. State officials want to improve land mobile radio interoperability for public safety agencies as well as in bordering states. 

"In an emergency, every second counts," Hochul said. "This grant funding will help ensure our communities across the state have the modern communication tools they need to act quickly and effectively to protect New Yorkers and save lives."   

More broadly, the state has sought to increase emergency responses at the local level, with added funding in the budget approved in May. That money includes $105 million to upgrade the State Emergency Operations Center as well as capital grants for volunteer fire departments for construction, renovation and the purchasing of equipment. An additional $10 million has been set aside for stipends for volunteer firefighters who finish foundational training. 

New York is also spending $20 million for a "Next Generation" 911 network. 

"Communications are the backbone of emergency response and this funding will improve our public safety equipment across the board," New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said. "Counties can apply for this funding to enhance their existing communications systems."