On April 5, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors held a special briefing with its federal lobbyist about the American Rescue Plan (Alameda County is expecting to receive $326 million in direct funding), followed by discussion of additional initiatives to watch for from the Biden administration.
Here are some noteworthy takeaways from the briefing:
- American Rescue Plan funds are likely to arrive on or around May 10. Counties and cities will receive half of the funds this year and half next year. Funds must be expended by Dec. 31, 2024. The Department of Treasury is preparing and will send out guidance to counties and cities on allowable uses of the funds.
- The infrastructure plan just released includes some initiatives focused on seniors and persons with disabilities. A third plan — the American Families Plan — is in the works. It is likely to include expanding access to health insurance, prescription drug pricing, and other initiatives.
On March 31, hospital leaders gathered for the Alameda County section meeting. Alameda County Health Officer Dr. Nicholas Moss spoke to the group about the county’s move to the orange tier under the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, the COVID-19 indicators of concern he is monitoring, and the continued need for preventive measures (masking, hand washing, and social distancing). CHA President & CEO Carmela Coyle provided updates on our state and federal policy priorities. Alameda County emergency medical services leaders concluded with a presentation about the study they are conducting this year to assess the county’s trauma system and make recommendations for the future.