U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. announced on Mar. 17 that he and several other Pennsylvania lawmakers have sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security requesting the release of nearly $600 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance funds related to COVID-19 response costs for hospitals across the state.
The request comes as many Pennsylvania health care providers are still waiting for reimbursement for expenses incurred during the pandemic. Lawmakers say these funds are critical to help hospitals recover from financial strain and continue providing care.
“Pennsylvania hospitals stepped up during COVID-19 and did everything asked of them and more to protect patients and support frontline workers,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “FEMA should stop dragging its feet and release the funds these providers were promised so they can keep caring for families across the Commonwealth.”
Rep. Mackenzie, who also signed the letter, said, “The COVID pandemic placed an enormous strain on hospitals throughout our commonwealth — requiring providers to absorb large, short-term expenses in order to save lives. As our health care providers work to complete their COVID recovery and prepare for the future, they’re counting on full reimbursement via the funding that the federal government has already allocated. Distribution of the $600 million in outstanding Public Assistance funds will provide critical support for Pennsylvania providers and empower their ability to provide the highest quality care.”
Rep. Fitzpatrick added, “Hospitals are among the most vital institutions in any community, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, Pennsylvania’s hospitals proved exactly why… That service came at a significant cost, and these hospitals should not still be waiting for support intended to help shoulder that burden. We will continue pressing to ensure the hospitals of Bucks and Montgomery counties—and across Pennsylvania—receive the resources they were promised and rightfully earned.” Rep. Smucker said, “Hospitals across Pennsylvania provide exceptional care to our communities every day… This was especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pennsylvania hospitals should receive the Public Assistance funding they are owed for the critical services they delivered.”
In their letter addressed to Secretary Noem, lawmakers noted that while FEMA approved substantial reimbursements through its Public Assistance Program, a significant portion remains unprocessed—delaying support promised for pandemic response efforts.
The letter also referenced recent advocacy by Members of Congress that helped secure about $2 billion in FEMA reimbursements for New York hospitals, expressing hope that similar action would benefit Pennsylvania providers.
Lawmakers concluded by thanking DHS officials for their attention and stated their intention to continue working with federal agencies until all approved reimbursements are delivered.
