NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- A Tennessee panel is proposing to use untapped federal COVID-19 stimulus money for new health investments, industry and tourism aid, and reserves for future projects.
The Financial Stimulus Accountability Group released a proposal Wednesday for American Recovery Plan money with $200 million to replace the State Public Health Laboratory and $129 million to improve local health departments. Another $110 million would continue staffing assistance aid at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and long-term care facilities stretched thin by the pandemic.
Tourism, agriculture and arts initiatives would receive $288 million.
Entities in pandemic-affected industries could apply for a share of $275 million.
Additionally, $61 million would fund a new state unemployment benefits system.
Another $300 million would be reserved for yet-to-be-determined health care-related capital projects. And $494 million would remain unallocated for now.
Officials previously announced plans to use $1.35 billion for sewer and water projects statewide and $500 million for broadband improvements and accessibility grants.