Gov. David Ige announced Saturday that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved the state’s application to participate in the unemployment insurance plus-up program called the Lost Wages Assistance Program.
“We pursued the additional funds because we know the added $300 per week will help many in our community who are struggling. I have directed the department to implement the program as quickly as possible while maintaining the program’s integrity,” said Gov. David Ige.
Sen. Brian Schatz said Saturday that FEMA approved a $193.9 million grant to Hawaii to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 with an additional $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit.
“While this new funding will provide some immediate help, it’s not enough for Hawai’i families who are struggling to make ends meet,” said Schatz (D-Hawaii), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “We’ll continue working to secure more federal funding to help Hawai’i get through this tough time.”
The Lost Wages Assistance Program is funded by FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, which received $45 billion from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.