Today Senator John Hickenlooper, Senator Michael Bennet and Governor Jared Polis announced that the state of Colorado has been awarded $181 million from the FEMA Public Assistance Program to support Colorado’s free, quick, and easy COVID-19 testing sites across the state. While the state of Colorado was expecting these funds, it asked Hickenlooper for his support after disbursement was delayed. Thanks to his swift action this money has now been awarded, which will allow the state to continue to test Coloradans and help control the pandemic.
“With vaccine distribution underway, the end to this pandemic is in sight – but Coloradans need to continue to do their part by social distancing, wearing masks, and getting tested. I’m glad we’ve been able to secure funding to boost testing sites across Colorado and get over the finish line together,” said Senator Hickenlooper.
“This is much-needed relief for our state so I am thrilled Senator Hickenlooper has hit the ground running in Washington and I look forward to working with him, Senator Bennet, and our federal delegation to ensure we are delivering results, are getting federal resources to Colorado, and are building back stronger than before the pandemic,” said Governor Polis.
“We have embarked on one of the largest public health surveillance efforts in our state’s history. This funding will help Governor Polis and our local public health agencies meet the testing needs of Coloradans as we continue to combat this virus and reopen our economy. I’ll continue working closely with Senator Hickenlooper in the Senate to help Colorado recover from this pandemic,” said Senator Bennet.
Now more than ever, anyone who needs a test is encouraged to get one. Coloradans can find more information about COVID-19 testing, including where to find the nearest community testing site, here.