Watson Coleman Seeks Clarity from HHS on New Jersey’s COVID-19 Plans

Letter to Secretary Azar Follows Exchange in Appropriations Subcommittee Hearing Wednesday Morning

Washington, D.C. (February 26, 2020) — Following an exchange between Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex M. Azar in the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies on Wednesday morning, Watson Coleman wrote to Azar to request additional clarity in communications between New Jersey officials and federal officials on plans to respond to COVID-19.

“I am concerned that there has been a lack of consistent communication from federal entities with state and local agencies in the response to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19),” Watson Coleman wrote. “For example, while Newark Airport in my home state of New Jersey has been designated a funnel site, state officials have not been able to gain clarity from federal officials on important logistical decisions. It is also my understanding that the State of New Jersey still lacks information about the exact cost-sharing model to address a potential COVID-19 outbreak in the community.”

On Wednesday morning, Watson Coleman questioned Azar on his Health and Human Services budget proposal, as well as the Trump administration’s response to COVID-19. Click here to view her questions to Azar on New Jersey’s COVID-19 plans.

To view the full letter sent to Azar today, click here.

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