(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) Missouri counties, cities, and towns can now apply for Missouri Blue Shield designation. Governor Mike Kehoe made the announcement on Wednesday.

The program recognizes communities commitment to enhancing public safety, strengthening support of law enforcement, and building public safety partnerships.

The Blue Shield Program is part of Kehoe's " Safer Missouri " initiative, outlined in Executive Order 25-03 , that he announced on his first day in office.

Communities that achieve Blue Shield designation will be able to access state grants for law enforcement training and equipment.

"Improving public safety is the top priority of our administration, and Missouri communities that are making public safety and support of law enforcement a priority should be recognized," Kehoe said. "We urge Missouri communities to apply for the Blue Shield designation to spread the word about the safe communities they're building. We will continue to work with the General Assembly to make $10 million in grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment available to Blue Shield communities."

The Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS) is administering the program. Applications should be made by an official from jurisdictions seeking the designation. Applications should be submitted here .

DPS will review applications and begin making determinations within two weeks of submission.

Blue Shield counties, cities, and towns must maintain their commitments each year to retain Blue Shield designation.