Over the weekend, President Donald Trump approved Kentucky’s request for a federal disaster declaration. According to a statement from the White House, this declaration will make federal funding available to the Commonwealth and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance.

A press release from Governor Andy Beshear’s office highlighted the significance of the designation. “Kentucky has received federal disaster designation that will provide additional funding for the commonwealth’s response to the pandemic. The Major Disaster Declaration issued by President Donald Trump broadens access to the Public Assistance Program statewide to pay for emergency protective services not covered by other federal statutes. The declaration also allows state and local agencies to recover expenses related to the response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Some examples of services covered include emergency medical care, medical sheltering, personal protective gear, law enforcement and communications, as well as the purchase and distribution of food, water, ice, medicine and other consumable supplies.”

All eight members of Kentucky’s federal delegation to Congress voiced support for Governor Beshear’s request in a letter to President Trump. Read more here.