Gov. Lee intends to set aside money for Houses of Worship Security Grant
$750,000 of the more then $50 billion budget intends to continue the Houses of Worship Security Grant.
SEYMOUR, Tenn. (WVLT) - During Governor Bill Lee’s State of the State address outlining his budget for 2024-25 he announced his intention to use $750,000 to secure houses of worship in the state.
Lee’s budget last year allotted the $750,000, and his office told WVLT News he intended to do it again.
”Usually on a Sunday morning, we’re not thinking of the dangers,” said Darren Kitts, pastor at Seymour United Methodist Church.
The funding could be critical for houses of worship.
”There are some churches who need more security,” said Kitts.
Seymour UMC installed a security system nearly a decade ago.
Kitts said that helps them save money today, but still, the replacement parts and other things can cost thousands.
”We have cameras throughout our church and outside we have our doors automatically locked, and they can be controlled through our office to lock and unlock at certain times. That is what we do,” said Kitts.
The Family Research Council said there were 191 Acts of Hostility towards American houses of worship in 2022.
Click here for more on Lee’s State of the State address.
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