Safe Spaces for All Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Bennet, Michael F. [D-CO]
- Committees
- Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 30, 2026
Bottom line
This bill expands the permissible uses of federal security grants for nonprofit organizations, aiming to enhance their physical security and administrative capacity to access these funds.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to expand the allowable uses of funds under the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Specifically, it clarifies that grants can be used for hiring onsite security personnel, covering expenses related to applying for and administering grants, hiring off-duty police officers, and hiring personnel specifically for grant application, with a 5% cap on such application-related expenses.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill provides much-needed flexibility and clarity for nonprofit organizations, enabling them to better protect themselves against threats. Allowing funds for onsite security, off-duty police, and grant administration reduces the financial burden on nonprofits and ensures more effective utilization of the program's intent to enhance security, especially for smaller organizations.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that expanding allowable uses, particularly for administrative costs, could divert funds from direct security enhancements, potentially diluting the program's primary objective. Concerns could also be raised about the potential for misuse or lack of oversight if grant funds are used for personnel without clear guidelines, or if the 5% administrative cap is insufficient or excessive.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its provisions quickly.
Section 2(1), amending 6 U.S.C. 609a(c)(1)(C)
Explicitly Allows Hiring Onsite Security Personnel
This provision clarifies that funds from the Nonprofit Security Grant Program can be used to hire security personnel who work directly at the nonprofit's location. Previously, the language was less explicit, potentially causing ambiguity for organizations seeking to use grants for this purpose, and this amendment removes that uncertainty.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that onsite security personnel are a critical component of a comprehensive security plan for vulnerable nonprofits, and this clarification ensures funds can be directly applied to this essential need without ambiguity, thereby enhancing safety.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this clarification, as it directly supports the program's goal of enhancing security by providing a clear option for human security presence.
Tradeoffs
The tradeoff involves allocating funds between physical infrastructure improvements (e.g., cameras, reinforced doors) and human security presence. This provision explicitly makes the latter a clear and permissible option.
Section 2(2), amending 6 U.S.C. 609a(c)(1)(D)
Allows Funds for Grant Application and Administration Expenses
This provision explicitly states that Nonprofit Security Grant Program funds can be used for expenses related to both applying for and administering the grant itself. This aims to reduce the administrative burden on nonprofits, particularly smaller ones, by allowing them to cover costs associated with navigating the grant process and ensuring compliance.
Section 2(3), adding new subparagraph (F) to 6 U.S.C. 609a(c)(1)
Explicitly Allows Hiring Off-Duty Police Officers
This new provision explicitly permits nonprofit organizations to use grant funds to hire off-duty police officers for security purposes. This provides another option for organizations seeking professional security presence, leveraging existing law enforcement expertise and authority to enhance their protective measures.
Section 2(3), adding new subparagraph (G) to 6 U.S.C. 609a(c)(1)
Allows Hiring Personnel for Grant Application (with 5% Cap)
This provision allows nonprofits to use grant funds to hire personnel specifically to assist with applying for funding under the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. However, it imposes a strict limit, stating that such expenses cannot exceed 5 percent of the total amount of the grant, aiming to balance support with fiscal prudence.