<http://www.governor.maryland.gov/pressreleases/2005/012405_idmaryland.html> Maryland Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. ~ 2005 Press Release ~ PRESS RELEASE Office of the Governor FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, January 24, 2005 Governor Ehrlich Launches "I.D. MARYLAND" Public Safety Initiative Smart Cars, DNA Database, Information Technology Top Priorities ANNAPOLIS - Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr., today introduced a broad plan to strengthen Maryland's public safety and homeland security strategies to meet the new threats facing Maryland and its critical infrastructure. Governor Ehrlich's plan includes new technology investments in "Smart Cars" and information technology while expanding access to fingerprint identification and DNA databases. "We have no more fundamental obligation in government than to ensure the safety of our citizens," said Governor Ehrlich. "This multi-faceted new plan empowers law enforcement and criminal justice officials to keep our citizens safe with state-of-the-art technology and real time information sharing systems. This plan is also big step forward in our efforts to protect Maryland's roads, tunnels, airports and harbors from the threats of the 21st century." Governor Ehrlich's plan includes: Smart Car Project: Governor Ehrlich invests $7.5 million in the Maryland State Police "Smart Car" Project, giving troopers direct, real time access to criminal databases. Information Technology: The Governor will invest $20.6 million in a major public safety information technology initiative to better respond to requests for statewide criminal record checks for identifications, investigations, gun purchases and bail hearings. Fingerprint Systems: Governor Ehrlich invests $12.5 million to improve the State's fingerprint identification system by replacing obsolete equipment and expanding storage capacity. Additionally, the Governor has requested $1.6 million to upgrade arrest booking systems and extend the "Live Scan" electronic fingerprinting system throughout the State. Finally, Governor Ehrlich will recommend approval of the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact, allowing Maryland secure access to the National Fingerprint File. Governor Ehrlich will also propose two pieces of legislation: DNA Database: First, the Governor will propose a plan to expand the State's capability to collect DNA samples from convicted felons and enter those samples into the national DNA database. Law enforcement agencies must build capacity to collect and analyze DNA samples that can help close cold cases, convict the guilty and exonerate the innocent. Communications Systems: Second, he will submit legislation to reduce bureaucracy and improve information technology and communications systems planning between state and local agencies. This plan will improve communications between governments to immediately get accurate data to first responders. Additionally, The Governor's Office of Homeland Security, Maryland Military Department, and Maryland State Police, will work with the FBI, U.S. Attorney, and other public safety entities, to support to the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center - the first joint federal, state and local intelligence and data collection/analysis center in the nation. View a PDF of the posters from today's press event. read more press releases -- ----------------- R. A. Hettinga <mailto: rah@ibuc.com> The Internet Bearer Underwriting Corporation <http://www.ibuc.com/> 44 Farquhar Street, Boston, MA 02131 USA "... however it may deserve respect for its usefulness and antiquity, [predicting the end of the world] has not been found agreeable to experience." -- Edward Gibbon, 'Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire'