{"id":4329,"date":"2020-05-05T18:45:37","date_gmt":"2020-05-05T22:45:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.indianz.com\/covid19\/?p=4329"},"modified":"2020-05-05T19:09:34","modified_gmt":"2020-05-05T23:09:34","slug":"the-trump-administration-is-supporting-indian-country-in-response-to-covid-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/2020\/05\/05\/the-trump-administration-is-supporting-indian-country-in-response-to-covid-19\/","title":{"rendered":"The Trump Administration Is Supporting Indian Country in Response to COVID-19"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p><b>The Trump Administration Is Supporting Indian Country in Response to&nbsp;<\/b><b>COVID-19<\/b><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><i>We will leverage every resource we have to bring safety to our tribal communities, and we will not waver in this mission.<\/i><\/p>\n<p><b>\u2013 President Donald J. Trump<\/b><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>PDF: <a href=\"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/TrumpIndianCountryCOVID-19.pdf\">The Trump Administration Is Supporting Indian Country in Response to COVID-19<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Overview<\/b>:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>recovery<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>efforts<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>are<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>locally<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>executed,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>State<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Government<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>managed,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and federally supported. Successful emergency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>management requires nationwide cooperation and unity of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>effort, combining the strength and ingenuity of our citizens and private sector with a sweeping, all-inclusive, and whole- of-government<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>below<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>partial<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>overview<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Federal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assistance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provided<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>574<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>federally recognized Tribes in the United States to combat the Coronavirus. The information is bolstered by hundreds of additional actions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>by the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Federal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Government<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to help<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>governments, their<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>leaders,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>citizens. Implementation of the CARES Act<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and other supplemental funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is ongoing and will also bring additional support to Indian Country. President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have appreciated the strong<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>partnership<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>leaders,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>public<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>health<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>officials,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Indian<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Country<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>professionals nationwide.<\/p>\n<p><b>Supportive Actions by President Donald J. Trump<\/b>:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <b>President<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Trump<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Declares<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>National<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Emergency<\/b>:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>On<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>March<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>13,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>President<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Trump<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/presidential-actions\/proclamation-declaring-national-emergency-concerning-novel-coronavirus-disease-covid-19-outbreak\/\"><b>declared<\/b><b><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><\/b>a<\/a> national emergency concerning COVID-19. The emergency declaration authorized direct Federal assistance, temporary facilities, commodities, equipment, and emergency operation costs for all States and Tribes of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. A Tribal government may choose to be a sub-recipient under a state that has chosen to be a recipient of FEMA assistance or choose to be a direct recipient of FEMA. As of May 4, 40 Tribes have signed agreements with FEMA making them eligible for assistance under the emergency declaration. Additional information and guidance can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/news-release\/2020\/05\/01\/coronavirus-pandemic-fema-assistance-tribal-governments\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <b>Tribal Government Disaster Declarations: <\/b>In addition to assistance available to Tribal governments under the nationwide emergency declaration, Tribal governments have the option to request assistance under a Presidential major disaster declaration. For the first time in history, every State in the country has received a major disaster declaration, which means every<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal government in the country is covered by a major disaster declaration (should a Tribe opt to be a sub-recipient under the State declaration). More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/news-release\/2020\/05\/01\/coronavirus-pandemic-fema-assistance-tribal-governments\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <b>Coronavirus Guidelines for America<\/b>: On March 16, President Trump and the White House Coronavirus Task Force <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/articles\/15-days-slow-spread\/\"><b>announced<\/b><b> <\/b>guidelines<\/a> (<i>15 Days to Slow the Spread<\/i>) to assist State, Local, and Tribal leaders in preventing the spread of the Coronavirus. On March 31, President Trump <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/03.16.20_coronavirus-guidance_8.5x11_315PM.pdf\"><b>announced<\/b><b> <\/b>revised<\/a> guidelines (<i>30 Days to Slow the Spread<\/i>) extending mitigation measures through April 30.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <b>Historic Economic Relief: <\/b>On April 24, President Trump <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/briefings-statements\/president-donald-j-trump-remains-committed-providing-critical-relief-american-small-businesses-workers-healthcare-providers\/\"><b>signed<\/b><b> <\/b>the<\/a> <i>Paycheck Protection Program and Health <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Care <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Enhancement <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Act <\/i>into <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>law. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>law <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provides further unprecedented <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>economic <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>relief <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to American citizens, small businesses, workers, healthcare providers, and State, local, and Tribal governments and builds on the <i>Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Families First Coronavirus Response Act, and the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriation<\/i>. More <a href=\"https:\/\/home.treasury.gov\/policy-issues\/cares\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <b>Guidelines<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Opening<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Up<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>America<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Again<\/b>:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>On<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>April<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>16,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>President<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Trump<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>White<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>House Coronavirus Task Force unveiled <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/openingamerica\/\"><b>guidelines<\/b><b> <\/b>for<\/a> the reopening of America. Developed by the top medical experts from across the Government, the guidelines outline a phased return to reopening and include specific steps for State, Local, and Tribal officials to follow in tailoring their response.<\/p>\n<p><b>Testing, Resource &amp; Logistics Support<\/b>: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>U.S.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Department<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Health<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>&amp;<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Human<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Services<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(HHS),<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>other<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Federal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>agencies,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>private<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>sectorpartners, to produce, allocate, and distribute key resources to the Indian Health Service (IHS) and key Tribal health facilities nationwide. Most notably, these include personal protective equipment (PPE), testing supplies, ventilators, and the expedition of critical supplies from overseas to various U.S. locations.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span>On March 6, 2020, the IHS activated the IHS Incident Command Structure (ICS) in response to COVID-19.<\/p>\n<p>This<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>formally<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>established<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ICS<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>sections<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>charged<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>leading<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Agency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>activities.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Each<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>section<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>facilitates activities that may assist Tribes in their response and recovery to COVID-19.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; HHS, the Centers for Disaster Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are providing unprecedented regulatory flexibilities, resources, and guidance to expand the availability of testing and to assist States and Tribes across the country in scaling testing. Learn more from the CDC <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-ncov\/cases-updates\/testing-in-us.html\"><b>here<\/b><\/a><b> <\/b>and FDA <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/medical-devices\/emergency-situations-medical-devices\/faqs-diagnostic-testing-sars-cov-2\"><b>here.<\/b><\/a><b> <\/b>In addition, CARES Act and other supplemental disbursements, alongside FEMA resources, are important avenues for Tribal governments to scale testing.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span>The IHS continues to scale COVID-19 testing and contact tracing for Indian Country. IHS <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2020\/04\/06\/hhs-supports-state-territorial-and-tribal-public-health-labs-with-covid-19-rapid-point-of-care-test.html\"><b>distributed<\/b><b> <\/b>250<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Abbott ID Now test machines through IHS area offices to Federal and Tribal health care facilities. Through these efforts, IHS testing has increased 10-fold over since April 1. Data reported from IHS, Tribal, and Urban Indian Organization facilities can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ihs.gov\/coronavirus\/\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; For the first time in history, all ten FEMA regions are concurrently activated. Each of the ten FEMA regions has Regional Tribal Liaisons that have and continue to coordinate with Tribes located within that respective region. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/tribal-contacts\"><b>here<\/b>. FEMA<\/a> has also dedicated a National Tribal Advisor Desk to help ensure Tribal response for COVID-19 in FEMA\u2019s National Response Coordination Center (NRCC).<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; Response and recovery efforts are locally executed, State\/Tribally managed, and federally supported. The White<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>House,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>coordination<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>FEMA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Federal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Agency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>partners,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provided<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/COVID-Response-and-Recovery-Guidance.pdf\"><b>disaster<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<\/b><\/a><b> <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/COVID-Response-and-Recovery-Guidance.pdf\"><b>primer<\/b><b><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><\/b>for<\/a><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>benefit<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>State,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Local,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>governments<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>navigate<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and recovery process. FEMA has also provided specific guidance for Tribal Governments <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/news-release\/2020\/03\/26\/coronavirus-covid-19-fema-assistance-tribal-governments\"><b>here<\/b><b> <\/b>and<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/news-release\/2020\/05\/01\/coronavirus-pandemic-fema-assistance-tribal-governments\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; In support of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, FEMA and HHS\/IHS are coordinating a whole-of- America approach to source PPE, ventilators, testing supplies, and other critical resources for States, Tribes, and Territories. The effort is led by Rear Admiral John Polowczyk of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and supported by Rear Admiral Michael Weahkee, Director, Indian Health Service. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/news-release\/2020\/04\/08\/fema-covid-19-supply-chain-task-force-supply-chain-stabilization\"><b>Project Air Bridge<\/b>,<\/a> a coordinated public-private partnership, is a key component of this strategy.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; Through<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Strategic<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>National<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Stockpile,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>other<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>FEMA\/HHS<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>procurements,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>donations,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>FEMA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>has distributed<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>7.3<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>face<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>shields,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>111.8<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>surgical<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>masks,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>896,183<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>coveralls,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>929.9<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>gloves,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>65.5<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>N95 respirators, and 18.1 M gowns across the country. These distributions do not include efforts to support supply chains in every State through Project Air Bridge and other sources. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/coronavirus\/news-multimedia\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span>As of April 28, FEMA has obligated more than $358,000 in support of ongoing Tribal response efforts.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; FEMA, in coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and HHS\/IHS, is providing direct support<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Governments<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>For<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>example,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>FEMA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Arizona<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>State<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Health mission have assigned a Disaster Medical Task Force to Tuba City Regional Health Care and provided subject matter<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>expertise<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>other<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assistance.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>FEMA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>has<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>also<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>deployed<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>two<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Disaster<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Medical<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Assistance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Teams (DMAT), two 50 bed Federal Medical Stations, and 100 ventilators to assist in response and capacity efforts. HHS\/IHS has deployed a liaison to assist the Navajo Nation Health Command Operations Center and assist with coordination.<\/p>\n<p><b>Federal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Agency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Support<\/b>:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Trump<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Administration<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>continues<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provide<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>unprecedented<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>resources, guidance, and regulatory flexibilities for State, local and Tribal governments to develop and deploy innovative solutions for COVID-19 response. To date, the Administration has distributed billions of dollars in resources and supplemental funding to Tribal Governments and entities.- <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Health and Human Services<\/b><\/p>\n<p><i>Indian Health Service (IHS)<\/i><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The IHS has allocated a total of $1.096 B from COVID-19 supplemental appropriations. On April 3, IHS began distributing $600 million of CARES Act funding to IHS, Tribal, and Urban Indian Organizations following<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>consultations<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>governments.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>On<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>April<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>24,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>IHS<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>began<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>distributing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>remaining<\/p>\n<p>$367 M in CARES Act funds. On March 27, the IHS began distribution of the full $64 M provided in the second supplemental appropriation for COVID-19 testing.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The IHS has and continues to provide guidance and resources to IHS, Tribal, and Urban Indian Health Organizations. Through partnership with Johns Hopkins University, IHS created COVID-19 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ihs.gov\/coronavirus\/resources\/\"><b>materials<\/b><\/a><b> <\/b>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>use<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>focused<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>on<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>community<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>prevention<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>education.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>IHS<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>has<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>also<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>conducted<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ten<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19 webinars aimed at increasing prevention and treatment resources.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The IHS has <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2020\/04\/08\/indian-health-service-expands-telehealth-services-during-covid-19-response.html\"><b>expanded<\/b><b> <\/b>telehealth<\/a> across the agency. Telehealth services means patients can reduce their risk<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>infection<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>also<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>keep<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>healthcare<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>workers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>others<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>waiting<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>rooms<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>emergency departments safe from COVID-19. It is also means frontline emergency physicians have instant access to critical care consultation across miles where the service has traditionally been very difficult to access.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>IHS<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>activating<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Alternative<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Healthcare<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Sites<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(ACS)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>address<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>insufficient<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ambulatory<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>care<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>or hospital capacity, as well as the need to screen and isolate select patients.<\/p>\n<p><i>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)<\/i><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 CDC is providing direct funding to Tribes and Tribal organizations to address COVID-19. As of April 28, CDC\u2019s<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>spend<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>plan<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribes<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>totals<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>more<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>than<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$200<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>million<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>across<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CARES<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Act<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>other supplemental funding streams. Specific allocations include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>$10.4 M, including $8 million to the National Council of Urban Indian Health and sub-awards<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>to 41 Urban Indian Health Centers, through CDC\u2019s existing cooperative agreement (more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/publichealthgateway\/partnerships\/capacity-building-assistance-OT18-1802.html\"><b>here<\/b>);<\/a><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>$36 M, including to 11 regional Tribal organizations with capacity to each more than 500 Tribes and more than 2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives as well as funding to four Tribal nations serving populations of 40,000 or more through CDC\u2019s existing cooperative agreement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>(more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/tribal\/cooperative-agreements\/tribal-capacity-building-OT18-1803.html\"><b>here<\/b>);<\/a><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>As of April 28, $1.17 M from $159 M in non-competitive grants to federally recognized Tribes, Tribal organizations, and bona fide agents (more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.grants.gov\/web\/grants\/view-opportunity.html?oppId=325942\"><b>here<\/b>).<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u00b7 CDC<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>providing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>guidance,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>training,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>tools,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>information<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribes,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>organizations,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and individual<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>members<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assist<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>them<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>addressing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Many<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>these<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>resources,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>such<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>as guidance on <i>Social Distancing for Tribal Communities with Local COVID-19 Transmission<\/i>, can be found on CDC\u2019s COVID-19 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-nCoV\/index.html\"><b>website<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 CDC is actively working with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ASTDR) to share information<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>gain<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>input<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>from<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>leaders<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>on<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>challenges<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>nations<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>are<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>experiencing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in addressing COVID-19.<\/p>\n<p><i>Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)<\/i><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 CMS has approved waivers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>under<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the authority<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>granted<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the Secretary in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>section<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>1135<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Social Security Act that provide a range of flexibilities in response to COVID-19. These waivers apply to Medicare and Medicaid providers, including IHS, Tribal and Urban Indian Programs that participate in Medicare and Medicaid. Examples of flexibilities include:<\/p>\n<p>\u00a7<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CMS is authorizing States and Territories to temporarily suspend Medicaid fee-for-service prior<\/p>\n<p>authorization requirements through the termination of the emergency declaration.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a7 CMS is temporarily waiving certain provider requirements in States and Territories. For example, States<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Territories<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>may<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>request<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CMS<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>temporarily<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>waive<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>payment<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>application<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>fee,<\/p>\n<p>criminal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>background<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>checks,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>site<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>visits<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>temporarily<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>enroll<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provider; permit<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>providers<\/p>\n<p>located<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>out<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>State\/Territory<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provide<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>care<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>an<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>emergency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>state\u2019s<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Medicaid<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>enrollee;<\/p>\n<p>temporarily<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ceasd<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>revalidation<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>providers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>who<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>are<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>located<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>state<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>or<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>otherwise<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>directlyimpacted<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>by<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>emergency;<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>temporarily<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>waive<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>requirements<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>physicians<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>other health care professionals be licensed in the state in which they are providing services, so long as they have equivalent licensing in another state.<\/p>\n<p><i>Administration for Children and Families (ACF)<\/i><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 Through<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Administration<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Native<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Americans<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(ANA),<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ACF<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>supports<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>critical<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>programs<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>are important for Tribes and Native American communities as they respond to COVID-19. Specific resources, guidance, and programs offered through the ANA can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.acf.hhs.gov\/ana\/news\/acf-native-american-covid-19-resources\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 ACF<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>hosting<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>calls<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ACF<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Advisory<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Committee<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>on<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>biweekly<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>basis<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>connect<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal regional<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>representatives<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ACF<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>program<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>leadership<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>representative<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>discuss<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ACF<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19 response and communications.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The CARES Act provided $3.5 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) program for the prevention, preparedness, and response as it relates to child care programs on April 13, 2020. ACF awarded over $96 M of this supplemental funding to all Child Care Tribal grantees.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Lead Agencies can utilize this funding for, among other things, immediate assistance to child care providers to sustain their operations<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>during<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>decreased<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>enrolment<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>or<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>closures,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>otherwise<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>support<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>child<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>care<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>families, including for healthcare workers, first responders, and others playing critical roles during this crisis.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>As a result of the CARES Act, over $10 M in Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) COVID-<\/p>\n<p>19 supplemental funding will be awarded to approximately 137 Tribes\/Tribal communities.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 As<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>result<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CARES<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Act,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>over<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$5.6<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Community<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Service<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Block<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Grant<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(CSBG)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19 supplemental funding will be awarded to approximately 96 Tribes\/Tribal communities.<\/p>\n<p><i>Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)<\/i><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The HRSA is the primary<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Federal agency for improving health care to people who are geographically isolated, <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>economically <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>or <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>medically <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>vulnerable. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><i>The <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Coronavirus <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Preparedness <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Response Supplemental Appropriations Act <\/i>funding enabled HRSA to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2020\/03\/24\/hhs-awards-100-million-to-health-centers-for-covid-19-response.html\"><b>award<\/b><b> <\/b>$100<\/a> million to 1,381 health centers across the country. This included 35 Tribal and Urban Indian health centers that received over $2 M.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The CARES Act provided HRSA with $1.32 B in emergency funding for 1,387 health centers across the country. As a result of this funding, 35 Tribal and Urban Indian health centers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2020\/04\/08\/hhs-awards-billion-to-health-centers-in-historic-covid19-response.html\"><b>received<\/b><b> <\/b>over<\/a> $22 M in supplemental<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>awards,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>detect<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>coronavirus,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>prevent,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>diagnose,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>treat<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>maintain current health center capacity and staffing levels, for the duration of the national emergency.<\/p>\n<p><i>Administration for Community Living (ACL)<\/i><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has distributed a total of $30 million from COVID-19 supplemental<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>appropriations<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>nutrition<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>supportive<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>services<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>elders<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>from<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>282<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>American Indian, Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian organizations that receive grants from ACL. The funds must be used in order to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the COVID pandemic. On April 20, ACL awarded<\/p>\n<p>$20 million of CARES Act funding and on March 25, ACL distributed $10 million in the first round of<\/p>\n<p>Coronavirus response funding. <a href=\"https:\/\/acl.gov\/COVID-19\"><b>More here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 ACL<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>has<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>also<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>coordinated<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>national<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>aging<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>organizations<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provide<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>weekly<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>calls<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal organizations to discuss COVID response for Tribal elders.<\/p>\n<p><i>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)<\/i><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 On April 27, as part of its CARES Act Response grants, SAMHSA announced the distribution of over $22 million in funding to Tribes, Tribal organizations, and urban Indian health organizations to provide crisis intervention services, mental and substance use disorder treatment, and other related recovery supports for children and adults impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. SAMHSA received a tremendous response from Tribal entities and was able to award 50 Tribal programs from $100k to $500k for up to 16 months.\u00b7 Additionally, through the CARES Act, SAMHSA will allocate $15 million to Tribes, Tribal organizations, urban Indian health organizations, or health or behavioral health service providers to Tribes.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>SAMHSA has consulted with Tribes on this funding and is working on its expeditious release.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of the Treasury (USDT)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 As of May 1, the Internal Revenue Service has issued over 127.5 million Economic Impact Payments (EIP) totaling<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>more<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>than<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$216.7<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>billion<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>eligible<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>individuals<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>across<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>country.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/home.treasury.gov\/news\/press-releases\/sm975\"><b>Authorized<\/b><b><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><\/b>under<\/a><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the CARES Act, EIPs are being automatically issued to eligible 2019 or 2018 Federal tax return filers who received<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>refund<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>using<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>direct<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>deposit.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Social<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Security<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>recipients<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>who<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>do<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>not<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>file<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>tax<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>returns<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>will automatically receive economic impact payments. More <a href=\"https:\/\/home.treasury.gov\/news\/press-releases\/sm967\"><b>here<\/b><b> <\/b>and<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/newsroom\/treasury-irs-deliver-88-million-economic-impact-payments-in-first-three-weeks-release-state-by-state-economic-impact-payment-figures\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 Title V of the CARES Act provides $8 billion through the <a href=\"https:\/\/home.treasury.gov\/policy-issues\/cares\/state-and-local-governments\"><b>Coronavirus Relief Fund<\/b><b> <\/b>(CRF)<\/a> to cover expenses<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>related<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>effective<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>preparedness<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>activities<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>programming<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to support American Indians and Alaska Natives. Following two rounds of consultation with tribal leaders, on<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>May<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>5,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Department<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Treasury<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>announced<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>beginning<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>distributions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal governments in all states. More <a href=\"https:\/\/home.treasury.gov\/news\/press-releases\/sm998\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 USDA is ensuring that Tribal citizens have food they need. USDA\u2019s Food Nutrition Service (FNS) is in the process of disbursing $100 million for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservation (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fns.usda.gov\/fdpir\/food-distribution-program-indian-reservations\"><b>FDPIR<\/b>)<\/a> appropriated in the CARES Act, with $50 M going towards facility improvements and equipment grades and the other $50 M going towards additional costs related to additional food purchasing. Additionally, FNS is reviewing waivers for multiple nutrition programs, such as WIC, to ensure maximum flexibilities directly to Tribes.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 USDA has and continues to provide numerous flexibilities and resources to Tribal governments to ease program operations and protect the health of participants. A list of waivers broken down by Tribe can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fns.usda.gov\/disaster\/pandemic\/covid-19\/tribal-waivers-flexibilities\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 USDA published a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rd.usda.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/USDA_COVID-19_Fed_Rural_Resource_Guide.pdf\"><b>COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide<\/b><b> <\/b>for<\/a> rural residents, Tribal citizens, businesses, and communities to find information about Federal funding and partnership opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 On April 17, Secretary Perdue joined President Trump in announcing the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usda.gov\/media\/press-releases\/2020\/04\/17\/usda-announces-coronavirus-food-assistance-program\"><b>CFAP<\/b>)<\/a> to assist farmers, ranchers, and consumers across States and Tribal governments in response to COVID-19. This $19 B relief program will provide $16 B in direct support based on actual losses<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>agricultural<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>producers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$3<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>B<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>purchases<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>fresh<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>produce,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>dairy,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>meat,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>including producers in South Dakota.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) distributed more than $355 M of the $453 M it received in CARES Act funding directly to tribal governments in April to support their COVID-19 response efforts.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CARES<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Act<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provides<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$69<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>education-related<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>needs,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>including<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>salaries,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>equipment,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>online curriculum development and other costs through the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to support the more than 46,000 tribal students, 183 BIE-funded schools, and tribal colleges and universities impacted by COVID-19.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Education (ED)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 To supplement the funds directly appropriated to the BIE, the CARES Act also provides support through the Education Stabilization Fund. In consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, the legislation directs the Secretary of Education to allocate $153.75 M to Interior for programs operated or funded by BIE. ED and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>BIE<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>recently<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>concluded<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>joint<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>listening<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>session<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribes,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>organizations,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal Colleges and Universities, and other stakeholders.\u00b7 ED<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>granted<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>several<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>waivers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>BIE<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>regarding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assessment,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>accountability,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>fiscal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>requirements under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bia.gov\/covid-19\/BIE-waiver\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 In recognition of the widespread school closures faced by school districts nationwide due to COVID-19, the Department has extended the deadline for eligible school districts to submit applications for FY2020<\/p>\n<p>OIE<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Title<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>VI<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Formula<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Grant<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Department<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>will<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>now<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>accept<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>OIE<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Title<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>VI<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Formula<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Grant applications until the end of the day on June 19, 2020.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>U.S.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Department<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Justice<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(DOJ)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>meets<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>monthly<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Attorney<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>General\u2019s<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Nations Leadership<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Council<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>discuss<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>emergent<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>issues<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Indian<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>country,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>including<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>DOJ<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>support<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribes during<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>global<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>pandemic.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Information<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>about<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>DOJ<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assistance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>has<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>been disseminated<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribes<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>each<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Bureau<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Indian<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Affairs<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(BIA)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>regions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>through<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Leadership Council. Additionally, DOJ is assisting with the inter-governmental coordination of Tribal public safety efforts to minimize COVID-19 exposure on Reservations as appropriate.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The U.S. Department of Justice\u2019s United States Attorney\u2019s Offices are continuing their efforts, along with their Federal and state law enforcement partners, to coordinate with Tribal governments on public safety issues and to prosecute violent crime in Indian Country, especially domestic violence. Additionally, the Department\u2019s U.S. Attorney\u2019s Offices are engaging Tribal leaders and Tribal law enforcement within their districts<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>offer<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>support<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>explore<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ways<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>which<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Department<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>can<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assist<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>our<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>partners impacted by the COVID-19 global pandemic.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Bureau<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Justice<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Assistance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(BJA)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>received<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$850<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>through<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CARES<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Act<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>purpose<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of assisting<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>state,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>local,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>jurisdictions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>preventing,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>preparing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>responding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the coronavirus.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>BJA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>quickly<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>developed<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Coronavirus<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Emergency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Supplemental<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(CESF) program<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>will<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provide<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>all<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>fifty<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>states,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>six<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>territories,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>over<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>1,800<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>local<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal jurisdictions across the nation. Seventeen Tribes from seven states will be eligible applicants for the CESF grant funding totaling $1,892,805. Ten of the seventeen Tribal applications have been started, and BJA staff continues outreach and application assistance to the remaining Tribes as needed. More <a href=\"https:\/\/bja.ojp.gov\/program\/cesf\/overview\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 In<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>feedback<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>received<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>over<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>past<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>several<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>years<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>from<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>leaders<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>series<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal consultations, the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) will allocate $118 M from the FY 2020 Tribal Victim Services<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Set-Aside<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(TVSSA)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>through<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>discretionary<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>administrative<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>formula.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>formula responds directly to concerns raised by Tribal leaders that Tribes not be required to compete against each other<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>OVC<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>OVC<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ensure<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>maximum<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>available<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>set-aside<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>be disseminated directly to Tribes. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ovc.gov\/news\/tribal-set-aside.html\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 With funding authorization under the CARES Act, the SBA created additional loan\/funding <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/funding-programs\/loans\/coronavirus-relief-options\"><b>programs<\/b>,<\/a> including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), to assist small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The PPP<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>available<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>small<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>businesses,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>501(c)(3)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>nonprofit<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>organizations,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>veterans\u2019<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>organizations,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>sole proprietors, and independent contractors, including Tribal business concerns.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 With an initial authorization of $349 B, SBA executed more loans to small businesses across the country in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>14<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>days<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>than<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>agency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>had<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>14<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>years.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>SBA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>currently<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>issuing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Round<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>II<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>PPP<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>loans<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>an additional<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$310<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>B<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>authorized<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>In<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>total,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>SBA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>has<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>approved<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>over<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>3.8<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>million<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>loans<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>small businesses totaling more than $500 B.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>SBA has approved Economic Injury Disaster Loan Assistance (EIDL) declarations as it relates to COVID-<\/p>\n<p>19 for every State. The declarations make SBA loans available statewide to small businesses and private, nonprofit organizations to help alleviate economic injury caused by the coronavirus. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/funding-programs\/disaster-assistance\/coronavirus-covid-19\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The CARES Act allocated $50 M to the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a National Institute <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Standards <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Technology <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(NIST) <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>program, <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>help <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>manufacturers <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>respond <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the coronavirus. For assistance, U.S. Tribal manufacturers should contact their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nist.gov\/mep\/centers\"><b>local<\/b><b> <\/b>MEP<\/a> Center.\u00b7 The CARES Act<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>provided the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Economic Development Administration (EDA)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$1.5<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>B<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to \u201c<i>prevent, prepare, and respond to coronavirus.\u201d<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><\/i>In the coming weeks, EDA will accept applications for grants from<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>eligible<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>entities,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>including<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>groups,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>support<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>wide<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>variety<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>economic<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>development assistance. EDA also intends to directly contact and provide special instructions to Tribal groups on how to receive funds for economic recovery planning and coordination under the CARES Act.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The Department of Commerce\u2019s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) continues to do its part keeping<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>America<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>safe<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>resilient<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>while<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>encouraging<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>minority<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>owned<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>businesses<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>do<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>same. Currently, MBDA offers its services to American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) entrepreneurs through a network of business development projects targeted specifically to AIAN businesses located across the country. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Each<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>project<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>offers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>a<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>range<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>services<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>AIAN<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>businesses,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>including<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>technical<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assistance, business consulting, access to capital and procurement opportunities, and strategic partnerships.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mbda.gov\/\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The CARES Act authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to provide $300 M in appropriated funds to assist fishery<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>participants<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>affected<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>by<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>National<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Oceanic<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Atmospheric<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Administration (NOAA)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>currently<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>operationalizing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>distribution<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>this<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>supplemental<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assistance.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Additional<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and updated information can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fisheries.noaa.gov\/national\/noaa-fisheries-coronavirus-covid-19-update\"><b>here<\/b>. Other<\/a> provisions in the CARES Act will help NOAA maintain continuity of operations and support the continued success of our nation\u2019s fisheries.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The U.S. Census Bureau is planning a listening session with federally and state recognized Tribes, and AIAN organizations across the country. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>This listening session continues ongoing communication with an<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>update<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>on<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>2020<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Decennial<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Operations,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>2020<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Disclosure<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Avoidance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>System<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(DAS)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the geographic hierarchy of DAS.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 In<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>FY<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>20,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Federal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Transit<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Authority<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(FTA)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>apportioned<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$32,604,193<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>under<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal formula<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>eligible<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>recipients<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>capital,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>operating,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>planning,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>administrative<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>expenses<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>public transit projects that meet the growing needs of rural Tribal communities. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.transit.dot.gov\/tribal-transit\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a> With additional authorizations under the CARES Act, FTA <a href=\"https:\/\/www.transit.dot.gov\/funding\/apportionments\/table-4-fy-2020-cares-act-section-5311c-public-transportation-indian\"><b>provided<\/b><b> <\/b>another<\/a> $30 M to eligible recipients for qualified expenses. FTA is permitting Tribes to use funds for meal delivery or other essential deliveries for a 6- month period from January 20, 2020.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 On April 14, 2020, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/airports\/cares_act\/media\/cares-act-airport-grant-amounts.pdf\"><b>announced<\/b><b> <\/b>CARES<\/a> Act grant allocations, including 22 grants for Tribal airport sponsors totaling $470<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>K. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>This funding will help these general aviation<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>airports<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>prevent,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>prepare<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>respond<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>impacts<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>public<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>health emergency.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 On April 17, 2020, the BIA Indian Highway Safety Program requested the first flexibility in use of traffic safety<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>equipment<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>activities. The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>majority<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>NHTSA-funded<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>grants,<\/p>\n<p>totaling<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>approximately<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$5<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>annually,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>are<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>used<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>traffic<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>enforcement<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>child<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>passenger<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>safety programs.<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 With the $19.6 B allocated under the CARES Act, the VA is hiring new staff and procuring additional resources to deal with the evolving needs of the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes expanding free or subsidized telehealth services and waiving a requirement<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that VA State homes maintain a 90 percent occupancy rate in order to receive Federal benefits for times when the Veteran is not in the home. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.va.gov\/opa\/pressrel\/pressrelease.cfm?id=5415\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>The VA traditionally provides Veterans\u2019 healthcare, benefits and memorial affairs. In times of national<\/p>\n<p>crisis, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, VA provides services to the Nation based on requests from States, while being clear that Veterans are our first priority. This is known as VA\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.va.gov\/about_va\/\"><b>Fourth Mission<\/b>.<\/a> In coordination with the Indian Health Service, the VA is exploring<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal engagement opportunities, including surge planning in the Albuquerque, Navajo, and Oklahoma City Areas.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The U.S. Department of the Treasury and VA <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/newsroom\/veterans-affairs-recipients-will-receive-automatic-economic-impact-payments-step-follows-work-between-treasury-irs-va\"><b>announced<\/b><b> <\/b>that<\/a> VA benefit recipients across the Nation will automatically receive $1,200 in Economic Impact Payments provided for under the CARES Act.\u00b7 On April 3, the VA announced a number of actions to provide Native American and all Veterans across the Nation with financial, benefits and claims help as part of the VA\u2019s COVID-19 response. The financial relief<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>actions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>include<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>\u2013<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>until<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>further<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>notice<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>\u2013<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(i)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>suspending<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>all<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>actions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>on<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Veteran<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>debts<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>under<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the jurisdiction of the Treasury Department and (ii) suspending collection action or extending repayment terms on preexisting VA debts, as the Veteran prefers. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.va.gov\/opa\/pressrel\/pressrelease.cfm?id=5412\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is assisting Tribes with their planning and response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>efforts<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>by<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>providing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>direct<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>technical<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>assistance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>emergency communications. This support included the development of 911 communication and practice standard guides for Tribal emergency communications dispatch and the development of communications guidance for alternate care sites and facilities. More <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cisa.gov\/emergency-communications-state-local-tribal-and-territorial-coordination\"><b>here<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 On<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>March<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>16,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CISA<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>updated<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cisa.gov\/identifying-critical-infrastructure-during-covid-19\"><b>critical<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>infrastructure<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>guidance<\/b><b><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><\/b>in<\/a><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>response<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19 emergency. The guidance is intended to help State, local, and Tribal officials to protect their communities, while<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>ensuring<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>continuity<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>functions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>critical<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>public<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>health<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>safety,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>as<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>well<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>as<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>economic<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and national <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>security.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span>DHS\/CISA <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>continues <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span>engage <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>stakeholders <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>on <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>guidance <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>issue revised\/updated versions.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 The<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Homeland<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Security<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Information<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Network<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(HSIN)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>supporting<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>communities<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>by<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>providing information<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>sharing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>solutions<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>support<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>virtual<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>emergency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>operations<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>center<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>COVID-19 situational awareness, planning and coordination among five Tribal nations in the Greater Duluth area (Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, Fond du Lac Band of Chippewa, Grand Portage Band of Chippewa, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe).<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; &nbsp; <\/span><b>U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 On April 3, HUD <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hud.gov\/press\/press_releases_media_advisories\/HUD_No_20_050\"><b>announced<\/b><b> <\/b>grants<\/a> to more than 500 Tribes of $200 M in supplemental Indian House Block Grants (IHBG-CARES). The funding primarily benefits low income American Indian families and is for Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) to carry out activities to protect the safety and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>health<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>of<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>their<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>members<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>communities.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribes<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>TDHEs<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>accordance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hud.gov\/sites\/dfiles\/OCHCO\/documents\/2020-06pihn.pdf\"><b>implementation notice<\/b>.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 HUD<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>will<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>soon<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>begin<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>accepting<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>applications<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>$100<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>M<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>in<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>supplemental<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>CARES<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Act<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>funding<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>the Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG-CARES) program. This funding provides support to Tribes and Tribal organizations across the country to respond to imminent threats related to COVID-<\/p>\n<p>19.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 HUD<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>has<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>issued<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>multiple<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hud.gov\/sites\/dfiles\/OCHCO\/documents\/2020-05pihn.pdf\"><b>waivers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>alternative<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>requirements<\/b><b><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span><\/b>of<\/a><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>statutory<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>regulatory provisions to facilitate and expedite the use of funds under both the IHBG-CARES and ICDBG-CARES programs to help address COVID-19 in Tribal communities.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 HUD has also taken many steps to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>protect Native American homeowners impacted by the COVID-19 emergency to allow them to stay stably housed in their homes.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>This includes imposing an initial 60-day foreclosure moratorium and a 120-day eviction moratorium under the Department\u2019s Section 184 Indian Home<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Loan<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Guarantee<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Program.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>HUD<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>developing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>guidance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>that<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>will<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>be<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>issued<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>very<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>soon<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>allowing borrowers<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>seek<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>forbearance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>relief<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>under<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>their<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>mortgage<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>loans<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>for<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>up<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>360<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>days,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>consistent<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with Section 4022 under the CARES Act, and much more.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Additional resources and guidance from HUD\u2019s Office of Native American Programs can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hud.gov\/program_offices\/public_indian_housing\/ih\/Covid_Recovery\"><b>here<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u00b7<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>DOE\u2019s Cybersecurity Energy Security and Emergency Response (CESER) continues to coordinate with<\/p>\n<p>State, local, and Tribal governments on energy security, preparedness, and response and provide COVID-<\/p>\n<p>19 response updates. On April 17, CESER held a briefing call for Tribal leadership.<\/p>\n<p>\u00b7 DOE\u2019s<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Energy<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Emergency<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Assurance<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Coordinators<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>(EEAC)<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Program<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>is<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>communicating<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>broadly<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>with State,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>local,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>Tribal<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>governments<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>sharing<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>access<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>to<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>information<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>on<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>energy<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>supply,<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">&nbsp; <\/span>demand, pricing, and infrastructure.<\/p>\n<h6>Additional Document:<\/h6>\n<ul>\n<li>Fact Sheet: <a href=\"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/?p=4326\">President Donald J. Trump is Protecting the Native American Community as We Combat the Coronavirus<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Trump Administration Is Supporting Indian Country in Response to&nbsp;COVID-19 We will leverage every resource we have to bring safety to our tribal communities, and we will not waver in this mission. \u2013 President Donald J. Trump &nbsp; PDF: The Trump Administration Is Supporting Indian Country in Response to COVID-19 Overview:&nbsp; Response&nbsp; and&nbsp; recovery&nbsp; efforts&nbsp; [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[37,28],"class_list":["post-4329","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-institutions","tag-donald-trump","tag-white-house"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4329","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4329"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4329\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4343,"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4329\/revisions\/4343"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4329"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4329"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/indianz.com\/covid19\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4329"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}