BJA FY25 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program Local Formula

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program – Local Formula, administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) within the Office of Justice Programs at the U.S. Department of Justice, provides federal funding to support a wide range of criminal justice initiatives at the local level. This program is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to eligible units of local government. The JAG Program is authorized under 34 U.S.C. §§ 10151–10158 and is intended to improve the functioning of the criminal justice system by enhancing law enforcement operations, prosecution, prevention, and community safety efforts. Under the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) funding cycle, the program allocates $96,384,585 in formula-based funding to local units of government across the United States. The program is divided into two categories based on allocation size: Category 1 for jurisdictions receiving less than $25,000, and Category 2 for those receiving $25,000 or more. The anticipated ceiling for Category 2 awards is $4,098,693, and the period of performance for these awards is 48 months. JAG funds can be used to hire personnel, procure equipment and technology, support training and technical assistance, and implement information systems necessary for enhancing criminal and civil justice processes. Eleven priority program areas are listed, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, drug treatment, crime victim services, mental health initiatives, and use of unmanned aircraft systems for public safety. Eligible applicants include city, township, county, and federally recognized Native American tribal governments that perform law enforcement functions. Entities must consult the JAG Allocation webpage to confirm eligibility. Localities in a “disparate” funding situation, as defined by the statute, must designate a fiscal agent and submit a joint application along with a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) from each participating jurisdiction. There is no cost-sharing or match requirement under this funding opportunity. Applications from ineligible entities or entities not listed in the allocation chart will not be considered. The application process involves a two-step electronic submission via Grants.gov and JustGrants. Applicants must first submit an SF-424 form by April 21, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET and then complete the full application in JustGrants by April 28, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET. Required components include a proposal narrative, budget worksheet and narrative, certification and assurance forms, and, where applicable, certifications related to body armor, body-worn cameras, and unmanned aircraft systems. Agencies must also respond to a JAG-specific survey and submit information related to financial management systems and risk disclosures. BJA encourages recipients to target pressing issues such as violent crime reduction, human trafficking, illegal drug activity, mental health and substance abuse interventions, and threats to houses of worship. Emphasis is placed on strategic partnerships across federal, state, and local agencies, and on initiatives that improve public safety and infrastructure security. Several uses of funds are prohibited, including those that violate federal immigration or civil rights laws. Certain expenditures, such as body armor and drone systems, require prior approval and certifications. Performance measurement is integral to the program. Recipients must collect and report quarterly data in the Performance Measurement Tool (PMT) and submit semiannual or annual performance reports depending on the category. BJA will monitor the success of funded programs through data submissions and compliance with reporting requirements. Additional reporting includes quarterly financial reports, audit submissions (if applicable), and adherence to administrative, financial, and civil rights requirements as detailed in the DOJ Grants Financial Guide and OJP Application Resource Guide.

Ensure full compliance with certifications (body armor, BWC, UAS); coordinate with federal law enforcement agencies for stronger proposals