The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP) marked its 20th anniversary on Monday, March 16. highlighting two decades of work to strengthen the safety and security of New Jersey’s residents, visitors, and institutions.
“This anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the important role NJOHSP plays in safeguarding people and institutions across New Jersey,” Gov. Mikie Sherrill said in a statement.
“For two decades, the agency has helped bring together leaders across government, law enforcement, and local communities to address emerging security concerns. My Administration remains committed to strengthening preparedness, deepening collaboration, and ensuring our state remains one of the safest and most resilient in the nation,” Sherrill added.
Merger of Two Departments
NJOHSP was created by Executive Order No. 5, 2006, Corzine, through the merger of the New Jersey Office of Counter-Terrorism and the Domestic Security Preparedness Task Force. This consolidation unified the State’s intelligence, security, and preparedness functions under a single organization, strengthening coordination and information sharing across federal, state, local, and private-sector partners.
“For 20 years, NJOHSP’s dedicated professionals and partners have worked every day to help keep New Jersey secure,” said NJOHSP Director Thomas Hauck. “The agency has built strong capabilities and partnerships to address evolving threats and strengthen our preparedness. Our mission remains clear: ensure New Jersey is prepared for whatever challenges or opportunities lie ahead.”
Expanded Duties As World Cup, 250th Celebrations Commence
Since its establishment, NJOHSP has expanded its mission from an initial focus on counterterrorism to a comprehensive approach that includes counterintelligence, preparedness, targeted violence prevention, and cybersecurity.
“We are marking this milestone as global events cause instability and raise the need for vigilance, preparedness, and heightened security in our state and around the country. It also comes as New Jersey is about to host commemorations of the 250th anniversary of the United States and an international crowd of spectators for the World Cup,” said New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport. “These events illustrate the great need for the important work of NJOHSP in fostering cooperation and coordination among various stakeholders and law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of New Jersey residents and the scores of visitors drawn to our attractions and events.”
In response to growing cyber threats, Executive Order No. 178, 2015, Christie, established the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) under NJOHSP. The center has since become a national model for cybersecurity operations, focusing on information sharing, incident reporting, election security, and statewide cyber defense.
In 2023, NJOHSP expanded its mission to include counterintelligence functions, addressing threats posed by hostile foreign intelligence activity, espionage, cyber-enabled intelligence operations, and transnational repression.
In 2025, Executive Order No. 404, 2025, Murphy, superseded Executive Order No. 5, 2006, Corzine, and modernized NJOHSP’s authorities, designating it as New Jersey’s lead agency for counterterrorism, counterintelligence, cybersecurity, and preparedness. The order strengthened intergovernmental coordination and aligned the agency’s mission with evolving threats.
Together, these efforts reflect two decades of progress in building a more coordinated, resilient, and secure New Jersey.
Grant Funding, Resources, and Partnerships
NJOHSP also manages and administers federal and State homeland security grant programs, including the New Jersey Nonprofit Security Grant Program and the New Jersey Reproductive Health Security Grant Program. These programs provide critical funding to nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship and healthcare facilities at high risk of terrorist attacks.
Grant funding also supports training, exercises, and preparedness initiatives for first responders and law enforcement, strengthening New Jersey’s ability to prevent, respond to, and recover from a wide range of threats and emergencies.
“For two decades, NJOHSP has been an invaluable partner to the New Jersey State Police. Together, we have worked side by side to strengthen our law enforcement capabilities, enhance intelligence sharing, and build meaningful partnerships within the communities we serve,” said Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Our collaboration reflects a shared commitment to vigilance, resilience, and unity — all with one clear goal: keeping the people of New Jersey safe.”
NJOHSP has strengthened partnerships through initiatives such as the Interfaith Advisory Council (IAC), established in 2012. The council brings together leaders from diverse religious communities to collaborate on security and emergency preparedness and is widely recognized as a model for similar initiatives across the U.S.
To learn more about NJOHSP’s programs, partnerships, and resources, visit the agency’s website.