State awards $20 million to upgrade security at religious and cultural institutions deemed at risk for terrorism

With heightened concerns about extremism and hate crimes throughout the U.S., Illinois officials said Thursday they have awarded $20 million in grants to synagogues, mosques and other religious and cultural institutions "deemed at high risk of a terrorist attack."The grants, which also were awarded to reproductive health centers, must be used for "target-hardening activities," which include active shooter training, the purchase and installation of security equipment and the hiring of security guards, according to Gov. J.B. Pritzker's office.

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