AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) The state of Maine is calling on cities and towns in the state to apply for more than $119 million in federal coronavirus aid.

The money is available via the American Rescue Plan Act. The office of Gov. Janet Mills, a Democrat, said Tuesday the money can help communities with economic recovery projects or it can be used to address public health effects of COVID-19.

The money can be used for needs such as replacing lost public sector revenue, helping small businesses and providing premium pay to public health and safety employees, Mills’ office said. Payments so far have gone to more than 240 Maine municipalities totaling more than $40 million, the office said.

The state is “committed to getting these crucial federal funds into Maine communities as quickly as possible, and is available as a partner or resource in putting these funds to use immediately on behalf of local residents,” Kirsten Figueroa, commissioner of the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services.