Yavapai News

President Donald Trump approved Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey's request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for the state on Saturday, April 4. 

Ducey had requested approval for the major disaster declaration in a letter on April 1 to the president. Trump approved the request, which would let Arizona receive more federal aid and resources to help with its COVID-19 response. 

“I’m grateful to President Trump for approving Arizona’s request and for the Administration’s continued partnership,” Ducey said in a press release. “These resources will bolster our efforts to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 and help us bounce back afterward stronger than ever. This continued collaboration will be crucial as we utilize all tools to combat this virus.”

With the Presidential Major Disaster Declaration, federal funding will be made available to state, tribal and some local governments as well as specific private nonprofit organizations in Arizona, according to Arizona Daily Independent News Network. The funds will be available for emergency protective measures on a cost-sharing basis. This will include Public Assistance, which will give the state direct federal assistance for any location in the state that has been impacted by the coronavirus. The federal cost share will be 75% for the Public Assistance. 

According to Arizona Daily Independent News Network, the major disaster declaration will allow Arizona to have access to more mental health care and it will help increase tribal health care employees' efforts. It will also let the state give grants to help lessen the risk that life or property is lost due to future emergencies. 

The disaster declaration will provide legal assistance to low-income residents of the state, while also expanding food assistance and other important services to Arizona household that have been impacted by the effects of COVID-10 and that have a low income.

"This is great news for Arizona. It’ll bring more resources to our state as we fight this virus, save lives and protect Arizona’s economy," Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema said on Twitter about the major disaster declaration.