WISCONSIN (NBC 26) -- Governor Tony Evers announced that Wisconsin has been granted a major disaster declaration for the entire state as a result of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
"I am grateful for the swift action of the federal government in reviewing our request for a major disaster declaration," Gov. Evers said. "The assistance granted today will help ensure Wisconsin can gain access to critical assistance as we continue our work to respond to this pandemic."
Gov. Evers earlier this week requested the federal government provide programs to support the state's response to the pandemic.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) notified that state today that it is granting the request for Public Assistance to help provide reimbursement for emergency protective measures taken by state and local governments in their response to the virus outbreak.
The declaration also authorizes direct Federal Assistance which means when the state and local governments are unable to get workers for emergency work or debris removal, the state may request the work be accomplished by a federal agency.
Other assistance program requests by the governor are still under review, according to a statement from Ever's office.
“The state will work with communities across Wisconsin to ensure federal disaster assistance is received as quickly as possible,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator. “We are thankful that our partners at FEMA helped to get a quick response to this request, so we can ensure critical assistance programs are available to communities that are in need.”
The major disaster declaration covers assistance to public entities and will cover eligible projects submitted by counties, cities, townships, tribes, and certain private, not-for-profit organizations. Under the program, FEMA provides 75 percent of eligible costs, while the remaining 25 percent is the responsibility of state and local agencies.
