Massachusetts Awarded $500K in Initial Federal Funding to Combat Coronavirus Outbreak

Statement

United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today announced that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has awarded $500,000 in initial funding to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to support efforts to address a potential outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This initial funding comes in advance of a Senate vote on a $7.8 billion appropriations package that would provide additional emergency funding to Massachusetts and other jurisdictions.

"The coronavirus outbreak is a public health emergency and requires an all-hands-on-deck response," said Senator Warren. "While I am pleased that the federal government has awarded this much-needed funding to the Commonwealth, we must act quickly to provide communities with the resources they need to confront this potential pandemic and minimize the economic impact this crisis could have on our families. I'll keep fighting to make sure our federal government has an effective response to this crisis."

"Responding to the coronavirus emergency will take leadership and resources at the federal, state, and local level," said Senator Markey. "This federal funding for Massachusetts communities will help them confront this growing threat and help address the harm it could have on their economies, and public health and safety. There is much more to be done to support our response to the coronavirus crisis, and I will continue to fight to protect our families and our communities."

The funding awarded to Massachusetts is part of an initial $25 million cooperative agreement to the states and local jurisdictions who have borne the largest burden of response and preparedness activities to date. This initial award will provide assistance for activities such as monitoring of travelers, data management, lab equipment, supplies, staffing, shipping, infection control, and surge staffing.

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