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

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, is offering funding under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program – Local Formula. This grant provides formula-based funding to eligible units of local government to support a wide array of criminal justice activities. The JAG Program is one of the leading sources of federal justice funding to local jurisdictions and supports various program areas, including law enforcement, prosecution and courts, prevention and education, corrections, drug treatment and enforcement, technology improvement, mental health programs, and more. Under this NOFO, the BJA anticipates distributing a total of $96,384,585, split into two categories of applicants based on their allocation amounts. Category 1 supports local governments receiving less than $25,000, while Category 2 supports those receiving $25,000 or more. For Category 1, awards are expected to be capped at $24,975 and have a performance period of 24 months. Category 2 awards may be up to $4,098,693 with a performance period of 48 months. These allocations are determined according to a formula based on crime data and population, and applicants can find their eligibility and allocation level on the JAG Allocations webpage. The purpose of the JAG Program is to enhance the administration of justice by funding activities that address crime prevention, law enforcement, court improvements, and other justice-related programs. Allowable uses include hiring personnel, purchasing equipment, investing in information systems, and supporting behavioral and mental health services. In line with broader DOJ goals, applicants are encouraged to pursue projects that combat violent crime, support victims, strengthen communities, and improve public safety. Special emphasis is given to programs involving coordination between state, local, and federal law enforcement to combat challenges such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for illicit activity. There are also specific statutory requirements and restrictions. For example, JAG funds cannot be used for programs that impede federal immigration enforcement or violate federal civil rights laws. The use of funds for UAS or counter-UAS systems requires specific certification and must comply with federal security and privacy standards. Additional prohibitions include using funds for legal services to unlawfully present aliens (with limited exceptions), and some costs associated with body armor and body-worn cameras require further certification. The grant also imposes a 10% cap on administrative costs and may require the creation of an interest-bearing trust fund if funds are drawn in advance. To apply, eligible local governments must complete a two-step submission process. First, they must submit a standard SF-424 form through Grants.gov by April 21, 2026. Next, the full application must be submitted in JustGrants by April 28, 2026. Applicants are advised to register early in both SAM.gov and Grants.gov to avoid last-minute issues. The application must include a proposal narrative, a budget worksheet and narrative, certifications and assurances, and specific attachments depending on the nature of the project (e.g., MOU for disparate jurisdictions, certifications for UAS, body armor, or BWC purchases). All applications will be reviewed for completeness, eligibility, and alignment with program goals. Final award decisions will be made by the Assistant Attorney General. Successful applicants will receive award notices via JustGrants, and funds will be accessible once all required certifications are properly submitted. Award recipients must submit regular financial and performance reports and may be subject to audit and compliance review. This program operates on a recurring annual cycle, with future rounds expected.

Submit early to avoid technical issues; budget administrative costs separately; confirm allocation eligibility on JAG website