Welcome back to Disaster Discourse Monthly!
We begin this month by discussing the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the economy, and the enactment of the Robert T. Stafford Act.
COVID-19 Pandemic…
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) characterized Covid-19 as a Pandemic. In an effort to control the spread of infection, countries and states issued shelter in place orders for many of their citizens to help flatten the curve of the rate of infections.
Stimulating the economy…
On Friday March 27, President Trump signed a $2.2 Trillion Stimulus Bill into law. Under this bill, there are many advantages for individuals, such as one time payments, individuals who qualify for unemployment will receive an additional $600 per week, and suspension of federal student loan payments until September 30. Additionally, $349 million of the Stimulus Bill is dedicated to the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) to produce loans through its 7(a) loan program and $9.5 billion has been set aside to aid farmers.
FEMA lending a helping hand…
On March 13, 2020, President Donald Trump determined the COVID-19 pandemic was severe enough to warrant an emergency determination under the Robert T. Stafford Act. This determination enables the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist state, local, tribal, and territorial governments respond to this nationwide emergency.
Cybercriminals take advantage of these trying times…
Cybercriminals have targeted people across the world in an effort to spread disinformation and induce fear about COVID-19. Most notably, cybercriminals hacked into the United States Health and Human Services Department in an attempt to overload their systems.
Have the isolation blues?…
While it might be difficult, sheltering in place can help save lives by stopping the spread of disease. Looking for things to do? Try doing something fun outside, cook a meal you’ve been wanting to try, or visit a museum… virtually of course.
Thanks for reading. We’ll see you next month and stay healthy!