Wikimedia Commons
Wikimedia Commons
The Department of Health Services has received $55 million to help combat the coronavirus pandemic.
The expansion of Public Health Emergency Fund was approved by lawmakers and signed into legislation by Gov. Doug Ducey on March 12.
“The Arizona Department of Health Services is Arizona’s lead agency is working to protect public health and prevent the spread of COVID-19,” Ducey said in a press release. “This bill helps ensure we are continuing to be proactive and ensuring our health officials have all resources necessary. My sincere thanks to Sen. Brophy McGee, President Fann and Speaker Bowers for their leadership on this issue. Members of both parties put politics and partisanship aside for this unanimous vote.”
Arizona Daily Star reports the $55 million is part of $1 billion that has been set-aside for emergencies and state revenue fluctuations.
Under the legislation, state health director Cara Christ has the authority to decide how to use up to $50 million through June 30. She is not required to get committee member approval, however she must notify the Joint Legislative Budget Committee on her intentions.
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