COVID FUNERALS: Why are feds paying for them?

Did anyone else notice the article in the Coeur d’Alene Press on Wednesday, May 25, titled, “Get help with Covid-related funerals?”

I was astounded! Since when does our federal government use taxpayer money to pay for funerals up to $9,000? Social Security allows a death benefit of about $260 or a little more the last I knew. That’s not realistic, but why this new program through FEMA with a cap of $9,000? This is not denying that funeral expenses for unplanned deaths can be daunting. However, unexpected deaths happen whether through COVID, accidents, heart attacks, or other of life’s misfortunes. End of life planning has always rested on individuals, not the government.

Suddenly, the government develops a program through FEMA. The $9,000 can be applied for, if and only if, the death is attributed to COVID-19. Of course, prepaid funerals do not qualify. Planning ahead by responsible people must not be encouraged. However, income and life insurance are not obstacles. Wow! FEMA must have lots of money to spend. I assume it is from taxes. Who developed this program? Just wondering.

VINETTA R. SPENCER

Coeur d’Alene