Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program- COMPETITIVE, FY 2019

The Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program is a competitive grant program that aims to improve forensic science and medical examiner/coroner services. The program provides funding to States and units of local government to help eliminate backlogs in the analysis of forensic evidence, train and employ forensic laboratory personnel, and improve the quality and timeliness of forensic services. The program also encourages investments in economically distressed communities and gives priority consideration to applications that propose projects that directly benefit federally designated Qualified Opportunity Zones. • Eligible applicants are limited to States (including territories) and units of local government. • The program provides funding for personnel, computerization, laboratory equipment, supplies, and accreditation. • The program has a 12-month period of performance and a total award amount of up to $250,000. • The program requires applicants to submit a certification as to external investigations and to provide information on the government entity or entities that will conduct independent external investigations into allegations of serious negligence or misconduct.