Pegula Sports & Entertainment announced that New Era Field has been recognized by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with SAFETY Act Designation in recognition of the Buffalo Bills' security practices.
"Safety is the number one priority at New Era Field," said Andy Major, Buffalo Bills vice president of operations and guest experience. "We are proactive with personnel training and technology implementation to ensure the safest possible environment. The Department of Homeland Security has put forth extremely high standards and has recognized that our existing practices and procedures meet those expectations. The expertise of our local law enforcement and emergency services agencies has also been an important component to providing a safe gameday experience for our valued fans, staff and team."
Following the tragedies of 9/11, Congress passed the Support Anti-Terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies Act, as part of the Homeland Security Act of 2002. The purpose of the SAFETY Act was to encourage the development and deployment of anti-terrorism products and services. All areas of the New Era Field complex are now recognized with SAFETY Act Designation. The Designation applies to all major events that are hosted at the facility.
"On behalf of the National Football League, I am excited about the recognition New Era Field has received by the Department of Homeland Security," said Cathy Lanier, senior vice president and chief security officer of the NFL. "The SAFETY Act Designation is a significant acknowledgement of the Buffalo Bills' commitment to safety, security and preparedness."
SAFETY Act Designation recognizes New Era Field for having technologies needed to help prevent an act of terrorism, and provides liability protection. In 2008, the NFL became the first sports league awarded SAFETY Act Designation for more than one single event. New Era Field is now the 14th NFL stadium to be receive SAFETY Act recognition. The initial term of the Designation is valid through 2023. The Bills were represented by Petrone-Risk during the application process.
