Major disaster declaration approved for North Carolina

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Editor's Note: Video references stimulus money 

President Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for North Carolina.

FEMA announced federal emergency aid is now available to the state. The emergency financial aid will help the state and local recovery efforts impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

FEMA said federal money is available to local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures. FEMA said additional designations could be made at a later date if requested by the state. FEMA did not reveal how much has been approved at this time. 

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper released a statement following the federal aid approval. 

“This is good news for cities, towns and counties that are incurring expenses as their public health providers, first responders and emergency managers work to protect communities from COVID-19,” said Governor Cooper. “We know this response will be costly and this federal assistance will help cover them.”

Cooper's office said North Carolina is still waiting for additional assistance that Cooper requested, including disaster unemployment assistance, crisis counseling, disaster case management, and other items. They remain under review and could be granted as the COVID-19 situation evolves.

“We will continue working with FEMA as they review our request for more benefits for people impacted by this pandemic,” added Cooper.

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