President Trump approves major disaster declaration for Alaska

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Thursday, April 9th, 2020 1:51pm

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President Donald Trump and Gov. Mike Dunleavy.

Washington, DC (KINY) - FEMA has announced that federal emergency aid has been made available for the state of Alaska.

Thursday's declaration follows one last month by Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy, who declared a public health disaster emergency related to the virus.

“I thank President Trump and his administration for recognizing Alaska’s need for support as we navigate through this pandemic, and approving our request for a Disaster Declaration. We have been in constant communication with the White House since January, and they have been very responsive to our preparedness and response needs,” said Gov. Dunleavy. “Federal support will enable our state and local communities to address the health and economic impacts caused by this devastating virus. My administration will continue to leverage all available options in these uncertain times.”

According to the White House, “additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the State and warranted by the results of further assessments.”

Officials say Trump ordered federal assistance to supplement efforts by state, local and tribal efforts in part of the state affected by COVID-19.

As of Thursday, the state had reported 235 cases of COVID-19.

The state health department says there have been seven COVID-19-related deaths of Alaskans, including two people who were out of state at the time of their deaths.

 

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