US federalism complicates cooperation on COVID-19

Significance

The response to COVID-19 has therefore seen a patchwork of national and local actions, which in some cases conflict. However, the same system allows local leaders to take critical action unilaterally, and many are.

Impacts

• States will seek further COVID-19 fiscal support; Congress could pass a fourth aid bill this week.
• Differing state fiscal and medical capacities will affect the success of their COVID-19 responses.
• Pressure will mount on Trump to make full use of presidential powers against COVID-19.
• Currently there is no pressure to reform federal or state emergency management systems, but this could come.
• Court cases will be initiated, seeking greater clarity on what public health-related powers state and federal officials hold.