On January 21, President Biden issued an executive order that directed the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to fully reimburse state and local governments for previously approved costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a clarifying statement issued on February 2, the Biden Administration stated that FEMA will retroactively reimburse state and local governments for approved expenses incurred since the start of the pandemic in January 2020.

FEMA reimbursements for the pandemic cover items and services such as masks, gloves, emergency food distribution, and sheltering for at-risk populations.

If your city has paid the 25% local cost-sharing contribution for federal disaster aid, contact the State Emergency Management Division and the regional FEMA office to ensure you receive the full reimbursement for the cost.