The DHS recognizes that supporting State and local partners on the front lines of the homeland security effort is a key priority. In this recognition, it was found that leveraging information from the Federal government and fusing it with State, local, and tribal data and creating fusion centers, these fusion centers would then be well-positioned to advise homeland security advisors and governors on potential threats. Fusion centers are a collaborative effort of two or more agencies that provide resources, expertise, and information to the center with the goal of maximizing their ability to detect, prevent, investigate, and respond to criminal and terrorist activity. In 2009, the DHS, Office of Intelligence and Analysis was tasked with strengthening the baseline capabilities and analytical capacity of fusion centers. This article outlines this renewed emphasis for improvement in service to State and major urban area fusion centers. 3 notes