Some counties and cities in New Jersey that have incurred additional and unforeseen costs related to the coronavirus pandemic are receiving an infusion of federal funds
Gov Phil Murphy announced on Friday that the state has set up a $ 60 million local government emergency fund to help counties and municipalities that have not received direct COVID-19 assistance of the federal government’s stimulus package to cover the costs they spent to fight the virus
This includes the money they spent on public health and safety, signage, remote technology, redesigning public spaces for social distancing, overtime for officials and even the increase refuse collection and sanitation services, as people stay at home more frequently
The money comes from the state’s allocation of federal funding from the CARES Act approved by Congress and approved by President Donald Trump Murphy noted that 12 of the state’s 21 counties had been excluded from the direct aid in the plan adopted by Congress this spring – based on a formula adopted under the administration of President Gerald Ford in the mid-1970s
« We can make sure these costs are covered without the full burden being borne by local taxpayers through higher property taxes, » Murphy said at a press conference in Evesham
The funds will be distributed based on a formula that includes a region’s COVID-19 infection rate, budget stress, population, and public health and safety spending This will help cover costs expenses incurred only between March 1 and December 1, 2020
Murphy said the state would put in « strong safeguards » to ensure funds are spent correctly and distributed fairly
The governor praised US Representative Andy Kim, D-3rd Dist, for ensuring these areas receive assistance after being left without direct assistance
« There is not a single level of government that can single-handedly solve the problems we are facing today, » Kim, from Evesham, said at the event. « If there is time to work together on a common cause, now is What we are asking for is what is right, especially during this crisis »
This comes as Congress and Trump negotiate another coronavirus stimulus package Murphy and other New Jersey leaders have repeatedly called for more direct aid for states and local governments
« It’s about the states, counties, local municipalities that need this money, » US Rep. Donald Norcross, D-1st Dist, said Friday « It’s about helping people. » / p>
Friday’s announcement also came a day after state officials warned that New Jersey – an early coronavirus hotpot – was bracing for a second wave this fall as new cases and hospitalizations have been increasing in recent times
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New Jersey, Coronavirus, Phil Murphy
World News – US – NJ to Give $ 60 Million Federal Coronavirus Aid to Select Counties and Cities Here’s Where It’s Going
