American Rescue Plan State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund Transforms Counties’ Ability to Respond to and Recover from COVID-19

WASHINGTON – As we mark the one-year anniversary of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) becoming law, counties across the country are investing in pandemic recovery and planning for the future. 

National Association of Counties (NACo) President Larry Johnson released the following statement:

For the past two years, counties have served on the front lines of our nation’s response to the pandemic, and the historic American Rescue Plan recognizes the vast responsibilities county governments fulfill.

“The resources from the American Rescue Plan allow us to invest in struggling small businesses, nonprofits, infrastructure, including broadband, public health and safety, and human services, especially for those suffering from domestic violence, mental illnesses and substance use disorders.

“The American Rescue Plan’s direct, flexible aid has been instrumental in our ability to respond to the pandemic, save lives, and strengthen local and national economies. It allows us to continue to support frontline heroes – first responders, medical professionals and others working around the clock to keep our residents safe.

“As counties enhance our resiliency and prepare for the future, the American Rescue Plan allows us to make transformational investments in our communities. We simply would not be positioned to make these investments without the American Rescue Plan.”

Explore NACo's database of planned ARPA Recovery Fund investments, sourced from official county documents, including U.S. Treasury’s Recovery Plan Performance Reports, press releases and budgeting materials here. Additionally, the Local Government ARPA Investment Tracker, powered by NACo, Brookings Metro and the National League of Cities, compiles information from local governments to offer a detailed picture of how large cities and counties are deploying the ARPA funds.