FEMA prepping for possible coronavirus emergency declaration, a move that would allow for additional resources
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is planning for the possibility that President Donald Trump could make an emergency declaration to bring in extra funds and personnel to assist the administration's coronavirus response, according to internal documents obtained by NBC News.
The Trump administration would have to use the 1988 Stafford Act to enable FEMA to provide such disaster assistance. Emergency declarations are most often used in the event of natural disasters but can be used to help manage disease outbreaks."To me this is another indication that the president and the White House are finally aware of the gravity of the situation," said Michael Coen, who was FEMA chief of staff during the Obama administration.
An emergency declaration would allow FEMA to provide disaster medical assistance teams, mobile hospitals and military transport, among other kinds of federal support, Manning said. FEMA spokesperson Lizzie Litzow said the agency is currently focused on supporting the Department of Health and Human Services , which separately declared a"public health emergency" on Jan. 31, allowing HHS to access funds and other resources to aid the government's virus response."At this time, there isn't anything additional to the HHS public health emergency," Litzow said.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Self-quarantine may provide option to slow spread of coronavirusSome people show up to work no matter what—snow, hail, sleet or illness. But muscling through is not always the best choice when sick.
Read more »
Saudi Arabia prepares 25 hospitals to handle coronavirus cases: health ministrySaudi Arabia has prepared 25 hospitals to handle any coronavirus cases that migh...
Read more »
What to buy for your home-quarantine emergency kit - Business InsiderThe World Health Organization has hesitated to call the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic, but some health experts say that it is.
Read more »
Wash. Investigates More Possible Coronavirus Cases Amid Fears Of A Regional OutbreakThe first U.S. death related to COVID-19 has been reported in Washington state. Officials are also investigating a reported case in a health worker and a possible outbreak in a nursing facility.
Read more »
Italy readies measures worth 3.6 billion euros to tackle coronavirusItaly will introduce this week measures worth 3.6 billion euros ($3.5 billion), ...
Read more »