“FEMA” Access Letters for COVID Still in Effect

- Krebs’ Signature Does Not Invalidate

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirmed last week that the so-called “FEMA” access letter issued in May for designated essential workers traveling during the COVID pandemic remain valid and in effect despite bearing the signature of former CISA Director Christopher Krebs who was ousted by the White House last week.

“The original letter signed by Director Krebs as the Director of CISA is still in effect until another CISA Director or authorized person either reissues or terminates the current letter,” said David Villyard, NCC COMM-ISAC Federal Chair of DHS’ CISA Integrated Operations Division.

As local authorities throughout Texas increasingly struggle with the raging pandemic and expand curfews or other travel limitations, journalists and engineers working for FCC-licensed stations and traveling for work should be sure to have a copy of the letter in their possession, along with a legal photo ID.

While commonly referred to as a “FEMA” letter, the agency of jurisdiction is actually called the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).

Request CISA Access Letter

Questions? Contact TAB’s Oscar Rodriguez or call (512) 322-9944.