The U.S. Senate last week approved legislation that includes funding for the Northern Virginia Regional Gang Task Force.
The Commerce, Justice and Science appropriations bill for fiscal 2010 included $300,000 for the task force, which includes police from Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park, Sen. James H. Webb Jr. announced.
The bill also provides $200,000 for a gang task force in the Shenandoah Valley, the Virginia Democrat said.
"Northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley face a number of serious public safety challenges with respect to increased gang activity in the region," Webb said in a prepared statement. "This funding is another important step to deter violent crime and to protect Virginia's communities."
Webb's announcement noted that he would seek additional federal funding for the Northern Virginia task force.
The House of Representatives passed a bill June 18 that would provide $3 million for the task force.
The two versions of the legislation will now be discussed by a conference committee.
After a final figure is worked out, both houses of Congress would need to vote. If the measure passes in the House and in the Senate, it will be sent to President Barack Obama.
Staff writer Jonathan Hunley can be reached at 703-369-5738.<p>
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