Bulletproof Vest Program (BVP) (MA) Grant

Bulletproof Vest Program (BVP) (MA) Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Massachusetts Office of Grants and Research (OGR)
Last Updated: November 10, 2025

Summary

The Bulletproof Vest Program (BVP) in Massachusetts provides essential reimbursement for police departments to acquire life-saving bulletproof vests. This state-funded initiative aids in replacing outdated vests and supports the purchase of new vests for officers. Eligible departments must apply for federal reimbursement first, ensuring that the vests meet the National Institute of Justice standards. The program underscores the commitment to officer safety by facilitating access to certified protective gear.

Overview

NOTE: As funding is limited, reimbursement is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reimbursement Forms are accepted at an ongoing rate until funds are depleted. Bulletproof Vest Program (BVP) (MA) This state-funded program assists Massachusetts Police Departments with providing police officers with the best lifesaving equipment available. The Bulletproof Vest Program (BVP) provides reimbursement to eligible police departments that have already applied and have been approved for reimbursement from the federal government under the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s Patrick Leahy Federal Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act of 1998. The purpose of the State BVP is to provide reimbursement for: The replacement of any bulletproof vest which was purchased on or after July 1, 2000 and is older than 5 years from the date of such purchase. The purchase of a bulletproof vest for an individual who had not been issued a bulletproof vest previously by such purchasing law enforcement jurisdiction. Officer(s) receiving vest must be full-time or part-time, sworn personnel of state or local police departments. Certain personnel of other agencies within the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, as determined by the Secretary of Public Safety and Security, may be eligible. Officers must have graduated from a recognized Police or Reserve Intermittent Academy. Vests purchased must be Threat Levels I and above. Vests purchased must be certified by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and on the latest NIJ standards list of American-made vests. Vests must be purchased in accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 30B and the applicant agency’s policies and procedures regarding procurement purchases. Vests acquired through this program are the property of the police department. The Patrick Leahy Federal Bulletproof Partnership Program must first provide up to 50% reimbursement toward vests purchased. As a condition of receipt of a reimbursement under this program, the recipient shall have made application for reimbursement to any federal grant program established by the U.S. Department of Justice to assist in the purchase of bulletproof vests; provided further, that any such costs that are not reimbursed through the receipt of funds from any such federal grant program shall be awarded to an eligible recipient; provided further, that as a condition for reimbursement, the model type of any such bulletproof vest purchased shall meet the National Institute of Justice requirements for bullet-resistant body armor in effect at the time of the purchase; provided further, that all applicants for grants under this item shall submit any documentation required by the secretary as a condition of reimbursement.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Local police departments and other eligible law enforcement agencies must first apply for reimbursement through the Patrick Leahy Federal Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program. Each state reimbursement request will require proof of the federal approval or proof of payment of the federal reimbursement.