Washington, Nov 14 (IANS): Washington Governor Jay Inslee has requested an extension of federal authority and funding for Washington National Guard employment in support of the Covid-19 pandemic emergency response operations through March 31, 2021.

"Washington state is experiencing a winter surge in positive Covid-19 cases. At the same time, our state is making preparations to efficiently distribute the highly anticipated vaccines. We continue to rely on essential help from the Washington National Guard to ensure an effective response across our state, especially during this critical time," Xinhia news agency quoted Inslee as saying in a letter.

"I request the extension of authority and additional funding ... for Washington National Guard employment in support of novel coronavirus pandemic emergency response operations," he noted.

Currently, more than 800 members of the Washington National Guard are continuing to support the state's pandemic response, including more than 500 members who are supporting nearly 50 foodbanks across the state.

Additional Guard personnel are helping operate community-based test sites and build test kits.

The current federal funding authorization runs through December 31 this year.