AASA Urges FEMA to Keep PPE as Reimbursable Cost for Districts
This week, AASA led a letter
to FEMA signed by 20+ other education groups in response to an announcement
that FEMA may eliminate PPE and disinfectants as eligible reimbursable expenses
under Public Assistance for COVID-19. We also understand that FEMA may seek to
tie eligibility to an arbitrary distinction between “response” and “reopening.”
This proposed change to PPE coverage continues a troubling pattern of shifting
costs and responsibilities onto state and local governments, including state
and local education agencies, when they can least afford it. The letter urges
FEMA to waive the state cost share for COVID-19 assistance, to maintain the
current guidance on emergency protective measures, and encourage the Administration
to provide clear guidance on eligibility of funding streams from across the
federal government.