Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 279 - GRANT PROGRAM DESCRIPTION FOR GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF HIGHWAY SAFETY
Georgia Rules and Regulations – Department 279
Grant Program Description for Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS)
⚙️ Purpose and Overview
Department 279 outlines the rules, procedures, and policies for administering highway safety grants under the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS).
The primary goal is to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities in Georgia by funding public and private programs that support highway safety initiatives.
These grants are federally funded, often through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and distributed to eligible local agencies, law enforcement, and nonprofits.
📜 Key Features of the Program
1. Eligibility Criteria
Grants may be awarded to:
Local law enforcement agencies.
State or local government entities.
Educational institutions.
Nonprofits and community-based organizations.
Applicants must show alignment with statewide highway safety goals.
2. Funded Activities
Typical projects or programs may include:
DUI enforcement and prevention.
Occupant protection (seatbelt use).
Speed and aggressive driving prevention.
Pedestrian and bicycle safety.
Traffic records improvement.
Youth driving safety education.
3. Application Process
Interested entities must submit a formal grant application during the annual application period.
The application includes:
Project description.
Goals and performance measures.
Budget details.
Data supporting the need for the program.
4. Grant Awards and Administration
Grant awards are typically for one fiscal year, but may be renewed based on performance and continued need.
GOHS monitors the grant through:
Regular reporting.
On-site visits.
Performance evaluations.
5. Performance Metrics and Accountability
Grantees must define measurable objectives (e.g., number of citations issued, training sessions conducted).
Reporting is required quarterly and at the end of the grant cycle.
Failure to meet objectives or reporting standards can result in termination of the grant or disqualification from future funding.
6. Financial Requirements
Grants are typically reimbursable, meaning grantees must front costs and submit for reimbursement.
All expenditures must comply with state and federal accounting standards.
Some grants may require matching funds from the applicant.
📌 Key Responsibilities of Grantees
Maintain detailed financial and programmatic records.
Submit timely reports (performance and financial).
Cooperate with audits and compliance reviews.
Use funds strictly for approved purposes.
🔍 Oversight and Enforcement
GOHS retains the right to:
Review and monitor grant use.
Request documentation and conduct site visits.
Suspend or terminate grants for non-compliance.
Recover misused funds.
🧾 Summary Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Administering Body | Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) |
| Purpose | Fund programs that improve traffic safety and reduce crashes |
| Eligible Entities | Law enforcement, governments, schools, nonprofits |
| Funding Source | Federal (primarily NHTSA) |
| Funded Programs | DUI prevention, seatbelt use, speed enforcement, youth safety |
| Reporting | Quarterly and final performance and financial reports |
| Enforcement | Monitoring, audits, possible fund recovery |
⚠️ Importance of Department 279 Rules
Ensures transparency, accountability, and effectiveness of highway safety programs.
Aligns Georgia’s efforts with federal traffic safety goals.
Helps local communities access funding to improve road safety.
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