*Wiley continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 crisis and will update this list as new information is available. This alert was originally published on March 25, 2020, and last updated October 9, 2020.
1. Administration for Community Living (ACL)
- Offers resources and programs for older adults and people with disabilities.
2. Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
- Virtual telework until further notice; staff will be conducting less travel and will conduct meetings via video conferencing; requests that people conduct communication by electronic mail.
- Priority: The Section 106 deadlines for a State or Tribal Historic Preservation Officer response will be considered paused while an office is closed or an officer is unable to carry out duties; ACHP issued extension for use of emergency Section 106 procedures for undertakings responding to coronavirus until September 30, 2020.
3. Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
- ARC staff are primarily teleworking and are continuing to process and administer grants, new applications, progress reports, and payment requests as they are received.
- Priorities: A number of regional and national resources. If grantees are currently unable to meet project goals or timelines, one can receive accommodations on project deliverables, timelines, budget, or other operations.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
5. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
- CMS is suspending non-emergency survey inspections across the country; recommendations regarding Transmission-Based Precautions, cleaning and disinfection, managing visitors, and monitoring and managing healthcare personnel have been put into place.
- Priorities: Medicare covers all medically necessary hospitalizations; lab tests for COVID-19; and “virtual check-ins.”
- Hospitals without walls - Increase hospital capacity
- Blanket Waivers for Health Care Providers (updated September 30, 2020)
- Temporary Policy for Premium Reductions announced
- Provider reimbursement announced for those counseling patients to self-isolate
6. Chief Human Capital Officers Council
- Advises Chief Human Capital Officers, HR Directors and Heads of Agencies on the importance of establishing telework capabilities; information on training for new employees and dual compensation waivers; Waiver of the Premium Pay Limitation and Aggregate Pay Limitation for Employees Working in Response COVID-19; cancellation of annual Human Capital Reviews in FY 2020 and postponement of 2020 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS).
7. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act protects homeowners from foreclosure.
- Priorities: CFPB is committed to providing up-to-date information and financial resources for consumers on how to protect and manage their finances including how to deal with debt, protect consumers’ credit, and avoid scams during COVID-19; action to help consumers receive relief from credit card issuers.
8. Consumer Product Safety Commission
- Virtual Telework. FOIA requests are being processed electronically at this time. FOIA requests and appeals submitted by US mail or courier, or any FOIA records requiring physical delivery will be delayed.
- Priority: reminding companies of their obligation to report incidents or unsafe products under Section 15(b) of the Consumer Product Safety Act; issued COVID-19 safety checklists.
9. Corporation for National and Community Service
- Priority: Regularly updating FAQs that include information on how to best manage projects and provide clarity to consumers on existing requirements and agency policies.
10. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- CISA released guidance on essential critical infrastructure during COVID-19 (rev. August 18, 2020).
- Priority: Warns consumers through this alert (rev. April 15, 2020) to be vigilant about scams related to COVID-19 and provides tips on how to decipher scams.
11. Defense Acquisition University (DAU)
- DAU faculty and staff will report and isolate any student who exhibits symptoms of the disease, or who states they have been exposed through social contact, even if they are asymptomatic, thus allowing for remote work.
- DAU has requested that regional campuses stay in close communication with local military base commanders and/or civil authorities so that these organizations can recommend specific measures tied to the severity of the threat in that specific area.
12. Defense Commissary Agency
- Priorities: 100% I.D. card checks at the entrance of all stores and no visitors will be allowed entrance in order to reduce the number of people in stores; no more “early bird” shopping hours; each location may impose purchase limitations on products to ensure availability to other consumers; plexiglass shields are being installed at checkout lanes as a protective measure; and resources on fraudulent COVID-19 products claiming to be tests, drugs, medical devices, or vaccines; expanded face covering requirement to include customers or anyone else entering a commissary.
13. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- USDA facilities are closed to the public, but have employees working at ports of entry among other locations. Some locations remain open for endorsement activities to help facilitate trade and international pet travel.
- Priorities: USDA will continue providing timely delivery of the services to maintain the movement of America’s food supply. See USDA responses to COVID-19 here.
- Signing documents electronically to support the import and export of live animals and plants and animal products.
- Temporarily extending expiration date to ensure timely services and food supply.
- Loan Maturity for Marketing Assistance Loans extended to 12 months.
- Information on food assistance for those whose financial situations have changed due to the pandemic.
- Extends Deadlines for Premium and Administrative Fee Payments, Defers Interest Accrual due to COVID-19
14. Department of Defense (DOD)
- DOD is following the CDC recommendations on gatherings and the need for social distancing as much as possible; Rumor Control facts on COVID-19.
- Priorities: Provide rumor control for COVID-19; combat COVID-19 with expertise and equipment; and provide timeline of COVID-19 response.
- Cactus COVID-19 Task Force Protects Reserve Force (October 8, 2020)
- DOD Details $75 Million Defense Production Act Title 3 Puritan Contract
- DOD Announces $135 Million in Defense Production Act Title 3 COVID-19 Actions (June 10, 2020)
- Travel Restrictions Status Update (August 5, 2020)
- Operation Warp Speed: Using the resources of the federal government and the U.S. private sector, Operation Warp Speed (OWS) will accelerate the testing, supply, development, and distribution of safe and effective vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics to counter COVID-19 by January 2021. (August 13, 2020)
- DOD Provides On-Line Mental Health Resources Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
15. Department of Energy (DOE)
- COVID-19 Hotline has been established at 202-586-COVD (202-586-2683) as well as a podcast to discuss the agency’s response to COVID-19.
- DOE is practicing social distancing and transitioning to maximum telework flexibilities for employees across the DOE enterprise, including Washington Headquarters, National Laboratories, and sites around the country; Headquarters transitioned to Phase 2 on June 29, 2020; DOE Return to the Federal Workplace Framework.
- COVID-19 update (July 17, 2020)
- Priorities: DOE continues to provide information, among other things, on how to maintain operation effectiveness under expanded telework.
16. Department of Health and Human Services
- Priority: Working to develop new medical countermeasures and take other actions to protect the health and safety of the American people. Providing information on CARES Act relief funding for hospitals.
- Coronavirus clinical study volunteer information
17. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
18. Department of Housing and Urban Development
- Released guidelines on how housing providers can disseminate critical information and prepare to take additional steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- Temporary Moratorium on all evictions and foreclosures under grant programs.
- HUD guidance on Planned Use of CARES Act funding (June 2020).
19. Department of Labor (DOL)
- Released resources to help workers and employers prepare for COVID-19 in the workplace, information regarding wages, hours, and leave, unemployment insurance information, and guidance for employees who have contracted the virus.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May Employment Situation report shows that the unemployment rate fell from 14.7% to 13.3% as a result of the U.S. economy adding 2.5 million jobs last month.
- DOL News Releases are highlighted below:
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (October 5, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers And Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (September 7, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Provides $100 Million to States To Combat Unemployment Insurance Fraud (September 1, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (August 30, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (August 24, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (August 2, 2020)
- Unemployment Insurance Claims Report (July 30, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Publishes Additional Guidance on Wage And Hour Rules, Family and Medical Leave As Workplaces Reopen (July 20, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (July 19, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Announces Enhancements to Assist Employees, Employers and Other Stakeholders in Use of Family And Medical Leave (July 16, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Issues Guidance to Employers to Help Protect Oil and Gas Workers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (July 7, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Using Public Service Announcements and Billboards to Promote Worker Safety and Health Amid Coronavirus (July 7, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (July 5, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Publishes Frequently Asked Questions and Answers To Help Keep Workers Safe During the Coronavirus Pandemic (June 2, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Offers Webinar on Families First Coronavirus Response Act’s Paid Leave Provisions for Employers and Employees (June 2, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Awards More Than $6 Million in Dislocated Worker Grants in Response to Coronavirus Public Health Emergency (June 30, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Offers Webinars for Business Owners, Employers and Other Stakeholders on Coronavirus-Related Paid Sick Leave (June 29, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (June 28, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Issues Guidance on Child Labor; Paid Sick And Expanded Family and Medical Leave Amid School and Camp Closures (June 26, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor’s OSHA and CDC Issue Interim Guidance To Protect Seafood Processing Industry Workers (June 25, 2020)
- U.S. Department Of Labor Announces Online Tool to Help Workers Determine Eligibility for Paid Sick Leave Due to Coronavirus (June 23, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (June 21, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Issues OSHA Guidance As Non-Essential Businesses Reopen and Employees Return to Work (June 18, 2020)
- As More Businesses Reopen, Worker Safety and Health Remains U.S. Department of Labor Priority (June 15, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Awards Nearly $239 Million in Dislocated Worker Grants in Response to Coronavirus Public Health Emergency(June 8, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (June 7, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Issues Alert to Keep Stockroom And Loading Dock Workers Safe During Coronavirus Pandemic (June 1, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor’s Osha and CDC Issue Guidance to Help Agriculture Workers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (June 1, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration Actions to Protect America’s Workers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (May 28, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Awards Nearly $24 Million in Dislocated Worker Grants in Response to COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (May 27, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor’s OSHA Issues Guidance to Help Construction Workers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (May 26, 2020)
- ICYMI: U.S. Department of Labor Acts to Help American Workers and Employers During the Coronavirus Pandemic (May 25, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Announces Rule to Better Deliver Retirement Plan Information Options, While Saving Billions of Dollars for Plans (May 21, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Issues Guidance and Reminders to States To Ensure Integrity of Unemployment Insurance Programs (May 11, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Provides Additional Guidance to States On the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Program (May 9, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Awards Over $10 Million in Dislocated Worker Grants in Response to the Coronavirus Public Health Emergency (May 6, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Provides Additional Flexibility for Dislocated Worker Grants, Allowing Awardees to Use Funds for Contact Tracing (May 5, 2020)
- U.S. Department of Labor Ends Temporary Non-Enforcement of Paid Leave Protections to Help American Workers During Coronavirus Pandemic (April 20, 2020)
20. Department of State
- Advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel.
- Fact sheet on the U.S. government’s COVID-19 prevention and relief efforts.
- Many countries are implementing travel restrictions and mandatory quarantines, closing borders, and prohibiting non-citizens from entry with little advance notice.
- Urges use of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Priority: launched unprecedented effort to bring home American citizens, provide international aid, and protect U.S. citizens.
- Launches a COVID-19 Private Sector Engagement & Partnership Fund
- U.S. Citizen Travelers: Please enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at https://step.state.gov/ to receive alerts and be located in an emergency.
21. Department of the Treasury
- The treasury department’s Secretary, Steven Mnuchin, was appointed to the President’s Coronavirus Task Force where he meets daily with the Vice President and our nation’s top health officials.
- Paycheck Protection Program for assisting small businesses
- CARES Act passed: $2 trillion economic relief package
22. Director of National Intelligence
- Social distancing and virtual telework; self-isolation requirement for any ODNI personnel who have departed the New York Metropolitan Area since March 18, 2020.
23. Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion Control Division (DEA)
- Priority: working with Federal partners, DEA registrants, and their representative association to ensure that there is an adequate supply of controlled substances in the United States.
- The telemedicine allowance under section 802(54)(D) applies to all schedule II-V controlled substances in all areas of the United States. Accordingly, DEA-registered practitioners in all areas of the United States may issue prescriptions for all schedule II-V controlled substances to patients for whom they have not conducted an in-person medical evaluation with some caveats.
24. Economic Development Administration
- Released the CDC Coronavirus Information on their webpage; debunk COVID-19 myths and provide latest news and resources.
- Guidelines for Opening Up America Again in a three-phased approach.
- Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) program, provides a wide-range of financial assistance to communities and regions as they respond to and recover from the impacts of the pandemic.
- EDA FAQs to help understand EDA’s CARES Act funding, who qualifies for grants, how to apply, etc.
25. Election Assistance Commission
- Priority: Continually working to make sure elections are accessible, secure, and accurate, and that voters are safe.
- Released vendor and manufacturer guidance on cleaning voting machines as well as state-specific resources on elections.
- State-specific resources
- Preliminary Planning for Increased Vote By Mail – Video
- Presentation – Preliminary Planning for Increase Vote By Mail, Interview 1: COVID 19 potential response
26. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- EPA is providing information on drinking water and wastewater to provide clarity to the public; providing information on disinfectants.
- EPA activated its Emerging Viral Pathogens Guidance for Antimicrobial Pesticides in response to the pandemic.
- EPA to identify and find PPE to State and Local Responders
- Recent EPA Guidance:
27. Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM)
- Announced relief provisions for exporters and financial institutions located throughout the United States that may have been affected by COVID-19 including waivers, deadline extensions, and streamlined processing to enable businesses and financial institutions that participate in our programs to return to their business concerns without penalty.
- EXIM Further Extends COVID-19 Temporary Relief Measures Through October 31, 2020 (August 31, 2020)
- EXIM Extends Several Temporary COVID-19 Relief Measures Through August 31, 2020 (May 28, 2020)
- National Association of Manufacturers Hosts Chairman Reed to Discuss EXIM COVID-19 Response Efforts with 50 Diverse Industry Leaders (May 20, 2020)
- EXIM Guarantee Pricing for the Supply Chain Finance Guarantee Program (Fact Sheet: May 6, 2020)
- EXIM Increases U.S. Exporter Access to Capital and Supply Chain Financing During COVID-19 by Raising Lender Guarantee Coverage Option to 95 Percent (May 4, 2020)
- EXIM extends temporary COVID-19 relief measures through May 31, 2020 (April 14, 2020)
- EXIM Board Takes Action in Fight Against COVID-19 Pandemic by Temporarily Restricting Export Support for Needed U.S. Medical Supplies and Equipment (April 14, 2020)
- EXIM Establishes Temporary Bridge Financing Program (March 25, 2020)
28. Farm Credit Administration
- The Farm Credit Administration is encouraging Farm Credit System institutions to work with System borrowers whose operations have been affected by COVID-19 and the measures taken to prevent its spread.
29. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- FAA will award approximately $10 billion in funds to commercial and general aviation airports from the Trump Administration's newly created CARES Airport program.
- FAA issued an extension of limited waiver of the minimum slot usage requirements through March 27, 2021 (October 2, 2020).
- FAA Issues Guidance about Flexibility Managing Scheduled Maintenance Requirements Due to COVID-19 (InFO20005)
- FAA Issues Guidance on Operations in Terminal Airspace (SAFO 20012)
- FAA Issues Guidance on Operations in Oceanic Airspace (SAFO 20011)
- FAA amended SFAR 118 to further extend COVID-19 Relief.
- FAA issued an exemption that allows U.S. airlines to carry cargo on seats in airplane cabins when no passengers are being transported (May 20, 2020).
- FAA announced regulatory relief for groups unable to comply with certain training, testing, and checking requirements (April 29, 2020).
- The COVID-19 public health emergency has affected airport sponsors’ operations and ability to meet the original 2020 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) deadlines. Therefore, the FAA has extended deadlines to May 4, 2020 to give notice of intent, and to Monday, June 15, 2020 to submit the final grant application. The full notice is available in the federal register (April 16, 2020).
- FAA enabled drone use for COVID-19 response efforts (April 14, 2020).
- The FAA is extending through October 24, 2020 the temporary waiver of minimum slot-use requirements at U.S. airports to help airlines that cancel flights due to the Coronavirus (April 9, 2020).
- Priorities: Utmost commitment to health and safety; air traffic system is resilient and flexible. Every air traffic control facility in the country has a contingency plan to keep air traffic moving safely when events impede normal operations.
30. Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP)
- Staff were placed in operational dress uniforms to be ready to respond to COVID-19 incidents; the BOP instituted a comprehensive management approach (Pandemic Influenza Plan) for oversight of the situation including all BOP Regional Offices, all BOP Central Office Divisions (which oversee program level functions), and the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) that coordinates with state and local prisons and jails.
- Priorities: The BOP's Incident Action Plan includes but is not limited to the continuity of operations (COOP) plans, supplies, inmate movement, visitation, staff training, and official staff travel. BOP institutions, as a matter of policy and procedure, have pandemic plans for preparedness in the event of any infectious disease outbreak.
- Participating in collaborative teleconferences with the CDC to exchange information related to COVID-19 and corrections.
- BOP COVID-19 map of cases (rev. October 8, 2020)
- BOP Implemented modified operations.
31. Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
- Mandated teleworking; no visitors allowed into its facilities unless there is a clear operational necessity for entrance.
- Established the $200 million COVID-19 Telehealth Program to help health care providers provide connected care services to patients at their homes or mobile locations (April 2, 2020). Some News Release highlights are below:
- E-Rate and RHC COVID-Related Waivers Extended (September 3, 2020 – Order)
- Extends Telecommunications Relay Services COVID-19 Waivers (August 26, 2020)
- WCB Extends Lifeline Program Waivers Due to COVID-19 (August 18, 2020)
- GCB Clarification on Emergency COVID-19 Related Calls (July 28, 2020)
- FCC Approves Final Set of Covid-19 Telehealth Program Applications (July 8, 2020)
- FCC Approves 13th Set of COVID-19 Telehealth Program Applications (July 1, 2020)
- FCC Extends Waiver of Sponsorship ID Requirements for COVID-19 PSAs (June 26, 2020)
- WCB Announces Close of Filing Window for COVID-19 Telehealth Program (June 25, 2020)
- Program-Specific 90-Day Plan for the FCC's COVID-19 Telehealth Program (June 25, 2020)
- FCC Approves Twelfth Set of COVID-19 Telehealth Program Applications (June 24, 2020)
- FCC Extends Waiver to Ensure Access to Zoom And Webex During Pandemic (June 23, 2020)
- FCC Further Extends Temporary Waivers for Relay Services Rules (June 22, 2020)
- FCC Chairman Urges Congress to Help Consumers Stay Connected (June 19, 2020)
- FCC Approves Eleventh Set of COVID-19 Telehealth Program Applications (June 17, 2020)
- TAPD Addresses Petition for SCF's Takotna Village Health Clinic (June 12, 2020)
- FCC Surpasses $100 Million in Approved COVID-19 Program Applications (June 10, 2020)
- WCB and OMB Defer Form 470 Changes due to COVID-19 (June 8, 2020)
- FCC Approves Ninth Set of COVID-19 Telehealth Program Applications (June 3, 2020)
- FCC Approves Eighth Set of COVID-19 Telehealth Program Applications (May 28, 2020)
- Broadband, Telephone Providers Extend Keep Americans Connected Pledge (May 14, 2020)
- Initiated the Keep Americans Connected Pledge in an attempt to ensure that Americans don’t lose their broadband or telephone connectivity (March 13, 2020).
32. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
- FDIC is working with federal and state banking agencies and financial institutions to consider all reasonable and prudent steps to assist customers; The agencies encourage financial institutions to work with borrowers, will not criticize institutions for doing so in a safe and sound manner, and will not direct supervised institutions to automatically categorize loan modifications as troubled debt restructurings.
- Putting out updated guidance for Bankers and Consumers.
33. Federal Emergency Management Agency
- Priorities: Distinguish between facts and myths; end misinformation fraud.
-
Guidelines for reopening (July 21, 2020)
-
Waiver of Private Nonprofit Primary Use and Primary Ownership Facility Policies Under the (COVID-19) Pandemic Declarations
-
Evacuation & Sheltering Assistance under an Emergency Declaration in a COVID-19 Environment (English) (Spanish) (August 22, 2020)
34. Federal Student Aid
- CARES Act - Federal student loan borrowers can temporarily stop making monthly loan payments through September 30, 2020.
- Latest Next Gen FSA News
35. Federal Trade Commission
- Virtual Telework; No public meetings; buildings closed
- Priorities: COVID-19 misinformation fraud; antitrust investigations will be reviewed on matter/matter basis; warning against scamming, especially relating to stimulus checks.
36. Federal Transit Administration
37. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network
- Notes emerging trends including imposter scams, investment scams, product scams, and insider trading.
38. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Priorities: FDA actions and guidance on testing, PPE, virtual town halls, food and agriculture industry, and medical treatment.
- Guidance on antibodies and infusions as well as on convalescent plasma and warning letters, as the ongoing response to COVID-19 continues;
- FDA efforts on additional testing, treatment acceleration and drug compounding, N95 respirators and other PPE, FDA will host series of virtual Town Halls for clinical labs, New stimulus bill grants FDA new authorities to modernize OTC drug development, FDA partnership with FEMA to assess supply chain issues, FDA facilitates Veterinary Telemedicine.
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: Daily Roundup (updated regularly). Below are additional news highlights:
- FDA In Brief: FDA Issues Guidance on Emergency Use Authorization for COVID-19 Vaccines (October 6, 2020)
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Authorizes First Point-of-Care Antibody Test for COVID-19 (September 23, 2020)
- FDA’s actions on a warning letter, an approved abbreviated new drug application, and an updated guidance in its ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic (September 2, 2020)
- The FDA issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for convalescent plasma as potential promising COVID–19 treatment (August 23, 2020)
- The FDA issued an emergency use authorization (EUA)to Ilumina, Inc. for the first COVID-19 diagnostic test utilizing next generation sequence technology (June 10, 2020).
- The FDA and Federal Trade Commission issued a warning letter to sellers of fraudulent COVID-19 products, as part of the agency’s effort to protect consumers. (June 9, 2020)
- Almost 400 FDA Commissioned Corps officers have been deployed to aid in response to the coronavirus public health emergency.
- FDA revokes emergency use authorization of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine (June 15, 2020)
- FDA warns of potential drug interaction with remdesivir in COVID-19 patients (June 15, 2020)
- FDA revokes emergency use authorization of Chembio antibody test (June 16, 2020)
- FDA posts updates on validation of molecular diagnostic tests (June 16, 2020)
- FDA announces participation in COVID-19 Diagnostics Evidence Accelerator (June 18, 2020)
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: Joint Statement from USDA and FDA on Food Export Restrictions Pertaining to COVID-19 (June 24, 2020)
- FDA authorizes first two COVID-19 serology tests (July 31, 2020)
40. General Services Administration (GSA)
- Priorities: GSA created buying guides for key products and services that agencies will need such as screening services, cleaning products and services, and Telework and IT services.
41. Indian Affairs
42. Indian Health Service (IHS)
- IHS headquarters is holding weekly conference calls with tribal and urban Indian health organization leaders from across the country to provide updates, answer questions, and hear concerns from tribal communities.
- Area offices provide technical assistance and support to tribal and urban Indian programs; updates are available via email and webinars.
- Updates COVID-19 Cases by HIS Area (last updated October 6, 2020)
- IHS COVID-19 Dashboard
- August 31, 2020: Tribal and Urban Indian Organization Leader Message on COVID-19
43. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
- IMLS announced $30 million infusion of the $50 million designated by the CARES Act to provide emergency relief though state libraries (April 13, 2020); IMLS continues “leveraging our federal role to facilitate the flow of information from the CDC and other agencies of the government in response to field needs.”
- Library and museum staff are serving visitors online and at home; providing computer use, free wi-fi at facilities, and hotspot lending programs; e-books, telehealth, online tutoring, and academic resources at libraries are available; libraries have waived fees.
- American Libraries and Museums Awarded $13.8 Million in IMLS CARES Act Grants (September 24, 2020)
- Scientists Find Virus Still Detectable After Six Days on Four Common Library Materials When Stacked (September 3, 2020)
- $1.2 Million in IMLS CARES Act Grants Awarded for Native American and Native Hawaiian Museum and Library Services (August 31, 2020)
- IMLS CARES Act Awards to be Announced in August, September (August 12, 2020)
- Mellon Foundation Invests $1.5 Million in Federal COVID-19 Research Project to Support Libraries, Museums Reopening (June 25, 2020)
- Research Shows Virus Undetectable on Five Highly Circulated Library Materials After Three Days (June 22, 2020)
- SBA Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Issues for Museums and Libraries (June 9, 2020)
- FCC Partners with Institute of Museum and Library Services to Address Digital Divide During COVID-19 (May 21, 2020)
- $15 Million in IMLS CARES Act Grants Now Available for Museum and Library Services (May 8, 2020)
- IMLS Authorizes New Grant Flexibilities for Libraries, Museums (April 6, 2020)
- COVID-19 Research Partnership to Inform Safe Handling of Collections, Reopening Practices for Libraries, Museums (April 22, 2020)
44. Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- IRS sent interest payments on tax refunds the week of August 18, 2020. If you got one, it’s not related to an Economic Impact Payment. Get details on these tax refund interest payments.
- IRS has established a special section focused on steps to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected; tax day was extended to July 15, 2020; Treasury, IRS and Labor announce plan to implement Coronavirus-related paid leave for workers and tax credits for small and midsize businesses to swiftly recover the cost of providing Coronavirus-related leave; High-deductible health plans can cover coronavirus costs.
- Announcement of advising new rules under CARES Act for flexibility in regard to healthcare spending (June 17, 2020)
45. Legacy Management (Department of Energy)
- Closed to the public and associated programming is cancelled until further notice.
46. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB)
- Because there will be delays in receipt of paper submissions and issuance of paper orders, notices, and decisions during this period, MSPB strongly encourage the use of e-Appeal Online for both new and pending cases.
- Note to read instructions here if you filed an appeal or a pleading in the interim and it was returned to you.
47. Military Community and Family Policy
- New resources including non-medical counseling sessions via telephone, live resources on Facebook, financial counseling, and updated resources on Military OneSource.
48. Military Health System
- Provides updated CDC health advice and travel restrictions on military members
- Priorities: DoD guidance on the use of cloth face coverings, PPE, and non-pharmaceutical interventions during COVID-19
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 12) -Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Traveling During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic (August 6, 2020)
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 11) – Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surveillance and Screening with Testing (June 11, 2020)
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 10) – Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Clinical Laboratory Diagnostic Testing Services (June 12, 2020)
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 9) -Department of Defense Guidance for Deployment and Redeployment of Individuals and Units during the Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic (May 26, 2020)
- Modification and Reissuance of DoD Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 -Travel Restrictions (April 20, 2020)
- Memorandum on Providing Federal Support for Governors’ Use of the National Guard to Respond to COVID-19 (April 14, 2020)
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 8) - Department of Defense Guidance for Protecting Personnel in Workplaces during the Response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic (April 13, 2020)
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 7) - Department of Defense Guidance for the Use of Cloth Face Coverings, Personal Protective Equipment, and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic (April 8, 2020)
- Authorization to Employ Military Medical Capabilities to Treat COVID-19 Patients (April 8, 2020)
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 6) - Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Laboratory Diagnostic Testing Services (April 7, 2020)
- Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 5) - Department of Defense Guidance for Movement and Medical Treatment of COVID-19 Patients, Symptomatic Persons Under Investigation, or Potentially Exposed COVID-19 Persons (April 7, 2020)
49. National Archives
- Virtual Telework until further notice; No public events; Closed Facilities; Suspended reproduction and digitization services
- Announcement (July 23, 2020) that some specific facilities can enter Phase I of reopening.
- Announcement (September 28, 2020) that Phase II Reopening will begin for selected facilities
- Priorities: Continue to serve the public remotely by responding to emailed requests for records and History Hub inquiries; online exhibits, educational resources, Citizen Activist Missions, and biweekly newsletters are available to the public.
50. National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC)
- Virtual Telework until further notice; Closed to the public
- Priorities: NCPC is conducting Commission meetings online until further notice. The next online Commission meeting is Thursday, September 3, 2020, at 1:00 pm. Meeting information will be available online.
51. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
- Links to: resources from Dr. Nora Volkow, NIDA Director, on COVID-19 implications on addictions; recovery resources; information for researchers; guidance for providers; justice system resources; and featured news articles. Highlights are linked below:
52. National Institute of Health (NIH)
- Links to coronavirus resources and the latest NIH research as well as news releases from NIH. Highlights are below:
53. National Park Service
- Visitor services suspended; NPS has made significant operational changes including closing most parking buildings, facilities, and restrooms.
- Some parks are phasing in recreational access. Check with individual parks for more information.
54. National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- Visitors and tours suspended for the immediate future; Virtual Telework until further notice
- Links to resources from other agencies, such as the CDC.
55. National Science Foundation (NSF)
- On June 18, 2020 NSF announced OMB Memorandum M-20-26 “Extension of Administrative Relief for Recipients and Applicants of Federal Financial Assistance Directly Impacted by the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) due to Loss of Operations,” and implemented it on June 25, 2020.
- On April 10, 2020 NSF implemented OMB Memorandum M-20-20, to allow Federal awarding agencies to repurpose their Federal assistance awards (in whole or part) to support the COVID-19 response, as consistent with applicable laws.
- Priorities: NSF encourages individuals to take extra precautions and follow CDC guidelines to protect themselves against COVID-19.
- NSF provides guidance on COVID-19, linking to US Government Response, CDC guidance, DOS travel information, and NSF Guidance for Major Facilities and Contracts Regarding COVID-19.
56. Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center
- Provides links to CDC guidance, personal protective equipment, and information and background on COVID-19, noting symptoms to look out for as well as an explanation of the Phased reopening process of states. Also providesreported U.S. cases and deaths.
57. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
- Follows the Office of Management and Budget guidance to ensure maximum telework for employees; Public meetings have been postponed or rescheduled as teleconferences, videoconferences, webinars, etc.; Most travel and inspections conducted by region-based inspectors has been postponed.
- Priorities: NRC inspections for materials licensees and research and test reactors continue to perform mission-critical inspections; Nuclear power plants also have plans to maintain appropriate staffing under adverse conditions, including reductions in non-essential maintenance work. Some actions include:
58. Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission
- Remains open and is conducting necessary judicial business using technology as appropriate. The Office is accepting filings and responding to inquiries. Only essential staff are present during business hours, with majority teleworking.
- All hearing-specific or other deadlines or scheduling orders in pending cases remain in effect unless modified by the assigned Administrative Law Judge or if the matter has not yet been assigned, the Chief Administrative Law Judge.
- Priorities: All assigned judges will apply the principles of flexibility and accommodation to reasonable requests for filing or scheduling adjustments necessitated by reasonable and fact-based travel, health or safety concerns, or advice or directives of public health officials.
59. Office of Personnel Management (OPM)
- OPM has published various Memorandums on HR flexibilities and authorities related to COVID-19. Highlights are below:
- (June 18, 2020) OPM Memorandum - Annual Leave and Other Paid Time Off Guidance
- (May 29, 2020) Returning to OPM Facilities Plan
- (May 27, 2020) OPM Fact Sheet The Use of Flexible Work Schedules in Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
- (May 22, 2020) OPM Q&A Treatment of FFCRA Leave
- (May 13, 2020) OPM Q&A – Which agency is responsible for enforcing compliance with the provisions of the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (EPSLA) for Federal employees? This Q&A describes OPM’s role in adjudicating employee claims related to EPSLA paid sick leave
- (April 23, 2020) OPM Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Resumption of Normal Workforce Operations
- (April 22, 2020) OPM Summary of Statutory and Regulatory Requirements in Connection with the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (EPSLA) Application to Federal Employees
- OPM Memorandum (April 14, 2020) Waiver of the Premium Pay Limitation and Aggregate Pay Limitation for Employees Working in Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)OPM has published various Memorandums on HR flexibilities and authorities related to COVID-19. Highlights are below:
- OPM Fact Sheet (April 3, 2020) - Recruitment, Relocation, and Retention Incentive Waiver Requests for COVID-19 Pandemic Health Crisis
- OPM Fact Sheet (March 27, 2020) - Options for Telework-Eligible Employees with Caregiving Responsibilities
60. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response
- Priorities: to explore the development of new medical countermeasures and take other actions to enhance health security
61. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)
- Priorities: working cooperatively with all state and federal banking agencies and other organizations to assist regulated institutions and their customers in managing the impact of the outbreak
- Highlights of news releases are below:
62. Small Business Administration (SBA)
63. Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Offices now open for scheduled appointments only: face masks required and all persons must be symptom free.
- At this time, Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) are only able to conduct hearings by telephone. As of July 31, 2020, the outreach process for cases in which the claimant is represented was updated. They will now send the COVID-19 Telephone Hearing Agreement form to the representative instead of calling the representative. Although telephone hearings are not mandatory, they are encouraged as offices are closed for the foreseeable future.
- Priorities: Beware of scammers claiming the pandemic is stopping payments; short staffing; critical services by phone, mail, and online. In-office now available on appointment basis only.
- SSA will contact individuals prior to their hearing to offer a hearing by phone. If you do not want a telephone hearing, you can ask to postpone your hearing instead, but SSA will not have an estimate of when they will be able to hold your hearing.
- SSA is extending deadlines wherever possible
- SSA has suspended workloads, including processing of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, overpayments, medical continuing disability reviews, 3rd party requests for information, and representative payee accountings.
- SSA guide updated on May 14, 2020: Economic Impact Payments for Social Security and SSI Recipients – Steps to Take and Schedule of Payments.
64. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Day-use recreation areas closed, TVA campgrounds closed, many TCA recreation areas are closed, TVA employees in support and administrative functions are working remotely and travel is restricted
- Priorities: Access maintained to public lands and waters, reliable electricity, flood management, and select project work with regulatory deadlines
- June 12, 2020 updates on what is impacted and what is not
65. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
- Travelers may wear a facemask during the screening process.
- New social distancing procedures have been put in place.
- Updated reports on TSA confirmed COVID-19 cases
- Priorities: Ensuring that travelers get to their destinations as safely as possible; TSA established a map for notifying the public about airports where TSA officers have tested positive for COVID-19 virus.
- Media Page
66. U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM)
- USAGM continues to follow guidance from the CDC, the White House, and public health authorities to inform agency policy and ensure the safety of USAGM staff around the world.
- Priorities: Bring information regarding COVID-19, to the people who most need it.
67. U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
- Priorities: Provide assistance to communities and nations, both nationally and around the globe, to help protect, detect, and respond to COVID-19.
- USAID and the State Department have made available nearly $274 million to combat COIVD-19. More than 42 billion – which Congress provided to USAID and the State Department in two emergency supplemental appropriations – is being put to work to save lives.
- USAID, as of May 20, 2020, is open and USAID employees remain on mandatory telework, available virtually. Access to USAID domestic facilities is restricted and requires approval.
68. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS)
- USCIS offices temporarily closed to the public, but certain field offices are reopened to the public as of June 4, 2020 to resume non-emergency face-to-face services; walk-in visits are not accepted at this time: all appointments must be scheduled.
- USCIS will send notices to reschedule postponed naturalization schedules, which may be shorter to limit exposure.
- Priorities: USCIS is using discretion to grant extensions or changes of status, employment authorizations for unforeseen circumstances, and various other situations that may require additional relief
69. U.S. Fire Administration
- First responders, including the fire service and EMS employers need to be prepared to counter COVID-19 cases: the CDC has published interim guidance on COVID-19 for first responders
- Priorities: CDC guidelines recommends that 911 and emergency medical dispatch screen callers for signs, symptoms, and risk factors of COVID-19; the agency warns against counterfeit NIOSH-approved respirators in the marketplace.
- FEMA made an additional $100 million available to fire/EMS for COVID-19 response. Learn more about cost recovery for fire and EMS here.
- Guidelines on COVID-19 testing for first responders.
70. U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)
- Public Health Emergency declared Peterson Air Force Base as of March 23, 2020; DOD personnel should monitor their command social media pages and DOD/CDC local websites
- Priorities: USNORTHCOM continues to monitor COVID-19 and encourages personnel to adhere to CDC guidelines.
71. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- On September 16, 2020, USPTO announced COVID-19 deferred-fee provisional patent application pilot program
- On June 30, 2020, USPTO released additional information on the COVID-19 Trademark Prioritized Examination Program
- On June 15, 2020, USPTO announced COVID-19 Prioritized Examination Program for certain trademark and service mark applications
- On June 12, 2020, USPTO announced relief to restore priority or benefit rights for patent applicants
- On June 3, 2020, USPTO released a press release announcing the launch of a COVID-19 Response Resource Center.
- On May 27, 2020, USPTO further extended the time to file certain patent-related documents and pay certain required fees.
- On May 8, 2020, the United States Patent and Trademark Office announced the COVID-19 Prioritized Examination Pilot Program, permitting COVID-19-related applications filed by small and micro entities to be put on a fast track for patent examination.
- On May 6, 2020 USPTO announced it will temporarily permit the filing of plant patent applications and follow-on documents via the USPTO patent electronic filing systems (EFS-Web or Patent Center) until further notice.
- On April 28, 2020, USPTO announced an extension of certain patent and trademark-related timing deadlines under CARES Act to June 1, 2020; USPTO waives original handwritten signature requirement, waives petition fees in certain situations for customers impacted by COVID-19; Closed offices to the public as of March 16, 2020.
- Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) and Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) oral hearings, and other similar in-person meetings scheduled to take place at USPTO offices on or after March 13, 2020 will be conducted remotely by video or telephone.
72. U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM)
- USSOCOM lists COVID-19 symptoms and FAQs, cases and latest updates, local mitigation strategies, and other resources on their COVID-19 webpage. The Situation Summary includes case counts, deaths, and a map of states with reported cases.
73. U.S. Trade Representative
- Recommends CDC resources on how to prepare and protect against COVID-19; links to information on the Federal Government’s response to COVID-19.
74. Washington Headquarters Services
- Current HPCON Status: HPCON B
- The Pentagon Reservation and DoD offices and facilities in the NCR remain open and operational, but with restricted access and enhanced health protection measures being taken beyond the health protection measures begun under HPCON 0, HPCON A, and HPCON B, which continue.
- Armed Forces Retirement Homes (Washington, D.C., and Gulfport, Mississippi) are at HPCON D. Employees and family members should contact AFRH directly or go to their web site for guidance and instructions.
- Priorities: Maintaining the cybersecurity, wellbeing, and safety of the nation as well as individuals and employees.
75. White House
- Priorities: The White House continues to publish guidance and updates regarding COVID-19. Some of the White House’s most recent published responses are listed below:
- Remarks by President Trump in an Update on the Nation’s Coronavirus Testing Strategy (September 28, 2020)
- President Trump’s Letter to America’s Governors (September 28, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Implementing His America First Healthcare Agenda (September 24, 2020)
- Readout from the Vice President’s Governors Briefing on COVID-19 Response & Best Practices (September 21, 2020)
- Executive Order: Executive Order on Lowering Drug Prices by Putting America First (September 13, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Working to Stop Evictions and Protect Americans’ Homes During the COVID-19 Pandemic (September 1, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Taking Strong Action to Further Protect Nursing Homes from the Coronavirus (August 25, 2020)
- The Trump Administration Strongly Supports Telehealth Innovation (August 19, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Using Every Available Resource to Deliver a Safe and Effective Vaccine to the American People (August 11, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Trump’s Historic Coronavirus Response (August 10, 2020)
- Readout from the Vice President’s Governors Briefing on COVID-19 Response & Best Practices (August 3, 2020)
- Memorandum on the Extension of the Use of the National Guard to Respond to COVID-19 and to Facilitate Economic Recovery (August 3, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Protecting Our Nation’s Vulnerable Seniors (July 22, 2020)
- Remarks from Vice President Pence regarding Phase III Coronavirus Vaccine Trials (July 29, 2020)
- Remarks from President Trump in Press Briefing (July 28, 2020)
- Readout from the Vice President’s Governors Briefing on COVID-19 Response & Best Practices (July 20, 2020)
- Bill Announcement: S. 4091 “Emergency Aid for Returning Americans Affected by Coronavirus Act” (July 13, 2020)
- Press Briefing by Vice President Pence and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force (July 8, 2020)
- Press Briefing by Vice President Pence and Governor Ducey of Arizona on COVID-19 | Phoenix, AZ (July 1, 2020)
- Press Briefing by Vice President Pence and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force | Rockville, MDxz (June 30, 2020)
- Remarks by Vice President Pence in a Briefing on COVID-19 | Dallas, TX (June 28, 2020)
- Readout from the Vice President’s Governors Briefing on COVID-19 Response & Recovery (June 22, 2020)
- Vice President Pence’s Op-Ed: There Isn’t a Coronavirus ‘Second Wave’ (June 16, 2020)
- Remarks by President Trump in Roundtable Discussion on Fighting for America’s Seniors (June 15, 2020)
- Remarks by Vice President Pence at a Roundtable Discussion with Small-Business Owners on Reopening America | Atlanta, GA (May 29, 2020)
- Memorandum on Providing Continued Federal Support for Governors’ Use of the National Guard to Respond to COVID-19 and to Facilitate Economic Recovery (May 20, 2020)
- New Members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force Announced (May 15, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: The United States Has Built the World’s Leading Coronavirus Testing System (May 11, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Ensuring States Have The Testing Capacity Needed To Safely Open Up America Again (April 27, 2020)
- Text of the Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate (April 22, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Beginning the Next Phase In Our Fight Against Coronavirus: Guidelines for Opening Up America Again (April 16, 2020)
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Is Demanding Accountability From the World Health Organization (April 15, 2020)
- Memorandum on Visa Sanctions (April 10, 2020)
