March 26. The White House granted Gov. Roy Cooper’s request for a federal disaster declaration for the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic in North Carolina. Meanwhile, Day 1 of Mecklenburg County

The declaration provides Public Assistance to all 100 North Carolina counties, allowing local governments, state agencies and eligible non-profits to be reimbursed for costs involved in responding to the outbreak of the Coronavirus.

This is good news for cities, towns and counties that are incurring COVID-related expenses.

Public health providers, first responders and emergency managers work are protecting communities from COVID-19, and incurring expenses. “We know this response will be costly and this federal assistance will help cover them,” Cooper said.

He is still waiting for additional assistance including disaster unemployment help, crisis counseling, and disaster case management.

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.

The governor has taken several actions during the COVID crisis aimed to protect the health of North Carolinians, including ordering all K-12 public schools in North Carolina to close through May 15th, banning gatherings of more than 50 people, limiting bars and restaurants to only take-out or delivery service, restricting visitors to long-term care facilities and promoting social distancing by closing businesses like movie theaters, gyms, nail salons, and several others.