President Trump declared a national emergency to deal with the new coronavirus that’s swept the globe and hit the U.S., saying states will get federal money and face fewer obstacles in testing and caring for patients.
“Two very big words,” Mr. Trump said from the White House Rose Garden. “No resource will be spared, nothing whatsoever.”
The designation will invoke the Stafford Act and extend up to $50 billion in aid to states and municipalities. He also ordered states to activate emergency-operation plans.
Mr. Trump said he is temporarily waiving interest on student loans held by federal entities and that he directed the Department of Energy to buy up oil for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
Also, his administration will give hospitals and health centers the flexibility to see patients from afar through telehealth and waive certain licensing requirements, so doctors can’t help areas that need them. He’s also waiving restrictions that limit the number of hospital beds in each facility or the length of a patient’s stay.
Mr. Trump also revealed he plans to be tested for the virus.
“Most likely,” Mr. Trump said. “We’re working out a schedule.”
The president spoke before the closing bell on Wall Street. Stocks soared as he spoke, and top Democrats said they were pleased with the emergency declaration, though told Mr. Trump not to go too far.
“As other steps are considered, the president must not overstep his authority or indulge his autocratic tendencies for purposes not truly related to this public health crisis,” Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, New York Democrat, said.
Mr. Trump, meanwhile, said House Democrats haven’t “given enough” in negotiations on legislation to deal with the crisis, raising doubts about a deal that appeared to be within reach.
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