Gov. Cooper executive order implements flexibility for child care in storm-impacted western North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Western North Carolina families are getting assistance with child care resources following Gov. Roy Cooper’s executive order as the cleanup and rescue efforts continue in the ravaged region.

Two weeks after Helene’s devastation, the governor’s office says the order implements new flexibilities regarding child care, public health, NC Medicaid, social services and vocational rehabilitation services to ensure affected North Carolinians have the necessary resources and assistance.

“Hurricane Helene has had devastating effects on Western North Carolina, hurting health care access in many communities,” said Cooper from Buncombe County on Friday. “This Executive Order will make more health resources available to those affected as we continue to surge resources and aid into impacted areas.”

Executive Order 319 implements flexibility for several programs overseen and administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. The flexibilities will enable child care facilities and homes to re-open or continue to operate through the storm response and recovery.

The order says that many family foster homes and residential facilities have been damaged,
destroyed or closed as a result of Helene. It may be difficult or impossible for homes or
facilities to re-open or remain open without changes in regulations.

Additionally, order will allow temporary waiver of regulations in public health, child welfare, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (“TANF”) and vocational rehabilitation services to ensure continuity of service and access to benefits.

On Sept. 25, Cooper declared a State of Emergency ahead of Helene, authorizing the governor to direct and aid in the response to, recovery from, and mitigation against emergencies, the order states.

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