President Trump approves Gov. Ducey's request for Arizona major disaster declaration
PHOENIX - In a letter to President Donald Trump, Governor Doug Ducey has requested a major disaster declaration from the federal government to aid Arizona amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
On April 4, Ducey says the president approved his request.
Ducey says the disaster declaration would bring "necessary federal assets and resources to assist Arizona’s COVID-19 response efforts."
“Arizonans have shown great resilience while coming together to support one another during this health emergency,” Gov. Ducey said in a statement. “This declaration will help families, individuals, businesses and tribal communities in our state weather this storm and bounce back afterward stronger than ever. I’m grateful for the partnership and collaboration we’ve had with administrative officials and hope to see this request approved in full to aid Arizona’s COVID-19 response.”
The disaster declaration will provide assistance to the following programs in Arizona:
- Crisis Counseling Program
- Disaster Case Management
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance
- Disaster Legal Services
- Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
- And any other appropriate Stafford Act disaster assistance programs
The disaster declaration would also provide access to expanded mental health care, supplement the efforts of tribal health care workers, provide grants to reduce the risk of loss of life or property during future emergencies, make available legal assistance to low-income Arizonans, and expand food assistance and other services to low-income households impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
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President Donald J. Trump, joined by Vice President Mike Pence, takes questions from reporters during a Coronavirus Task Force update Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo D