Trump Declares National Emergency Over Virus Spread

WASHINGTON, DC — President Donald Trump during a Friday news conference declared a national emergency in response to the ongoing spread of the new coronavirus throughout the United States, which frees up to $50 billion in federal aid to states and municipalities.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and other top Democrats have been pressing Trump to invoke the act, which offers strong emergency powers but is typically applied to specific states and geographic areas.

Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

During a national emergency, states could request a 75 percent federal cost-share for expenses that include emergency workers, medical tests, medical supplies, vaccinations and more, Bloomberg reported.

Trump made the declaration during a news conference that started at 3 p.m. EDT.

He also announced a range of executive actions, including a new public-private partnership to expand coronavirus testing capabilities with drive-through locations, The Associated Press reported, as his administration has come under fire for being too slow in making the test available.

Late Friday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced a deal with the Trump administration for a Congressional aid package aiming to provide direct relief to Americans. The bill includes free testing, two weeks of sick pay for workers, enhanced unemployment benefits and bolstered food programs, AP reported.

However, key Republicans told POLITICO they were unaware of a deal, saying there are still lingering issues in the deal to resolve. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer also said Democrats thought deal had been reached, but lawmakers appeared to be working through last-minute issues, POLITICO reported.

Reports have been mixed on whether a vote on the package will still be held Friday night.