REGIONAL MODEL STRATEGIC PLAN PILOT PROJECTS.

SEC. 7304. [6 U.S.C. 194 note] REGIONAL MODEL STRATEGIC PLAN PILOT PROJECTS. (a) Pilot Projects.—Consistent with sections 302 and 430 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 182, 238), not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish not fewer than 2 pilot projects in high threat urban areas or regions that are likely to implement a national model strategic plan. (b) Purposes.—The purposes of the pilot projects required by this section shall be to develop a regional strategic plan to foster interagency communication in the area in which it is established and coordinate the gathering of all Federal, State, and local first responders in that area, consistent with the national strategic plan developed by the Department of Homeland Security. (c) Selection Criteria.—In selecting urban areas for the location of pilot projects under this section, the Secretary shall consider— (1) the level of risk to the area, as determined by the Department of Homeland Security; (2) the number of Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies located in the area; (3) the number of potential victims from a large scale terrorist attack in the area; and (4) such other criteria reflecting a community's risk and vulnerability as the Secretary determines is appropriate. (d) Interagency Assistance.—The Secretary of Homeland Security shall consult with the Secretary of Defense as necessary for the development of the pilot projects required by this section, including examining relevant standards, equipment, and protocols in order to improve interagency communication among first responders. (e) Reports to Congress.—The Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to Congress— (1) an interim report regarding the progress of the interagency communications pilot projects required by this section 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) a final report 18 months after that date of enactment. (f) Funding.—There are authorized to be made available to the Secretary of Homeland Security, such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section.