Counties are working around the clock to identify and respond to
the spread of the novel coronavirus in California. Federal,
state, and local governments and departments have closely
monitored the developments of the novel coronavirus, dubbed
COVID-19 by the World Health Organization.
CSAC, along with the County Health Executives Association of
California (CHEAC), sent a
letter to Governor Newsom last Friday, February 28 detailing
the critical efforts of local health departments to protect the
health of local communities. These efforts include contact
investigations, tracing any individual’s whereabouts, notifying
any individuals that may have been in close contact, and
conducting the necessary laboratory testing and/or follow-up
include education on preventative measures.
While we don’t yet know the scope of potential local government
impacts of COVID-19, the letter was intended to alert the
Governor and Legislature of the need for local coordination,
resources, and support.
This week, the Governor asked the Legislature to approve $20
million in state disaster funding to support the state’s response
to COVID-19. And Congress announced an $8.3 billion funding
package with bipartisan support. While the state’s $20 million
request is expected to support primarily state functions, the
federal package, if approved, will provide 42.2 billion
immediately to state and local public health agencies to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus. Further, the package
includes a general provision to reimburse state or local costs
incurred for coronavirus preparedness and response activities
between January 20 and the date of enactment of the bill, and
allows the funding to be used for construction or renovation of
facilities.
Our county supervisors and local public health officials continue
to respond to and communicate about the COVID-19 issue, and while
the future of these efforts is uncertain, CSAC will continue to
advocate for resources and collaboration from our state, federal,
and international partners.
