California has allocated $2.5 billion to aid the Los Angeles region in recovering from recent devastating wildfires. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the relief package into law following bipartisan support from the state Legislature. The funding will support emergency disaster response efforts, including evacuations, sheltering survivors, and hazardous waste removal.
In addition to the $2.5 billion, the legislation includes $4 million to expedite home rebuilding approvals for local governments and $1 million to assist school districts in rebuilding facilities.
Newsom emphasized the importance of instilling hopefulness during a news conference in Pasadena, a city severely impacted by the recent fires.
The approval of the aid package coincided with President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to California to assess wildfire damage. While Trump had hinted at attaching conditions to federal wildfire relief, congressional Republicans representing the state opposed this notion. Former President Joe Biden had previously approved disaster aid for the region.
The state Senate also passed $25 million to defend against potential legal challenges from the federal government and to support legal groups aiding immigrants facing deportation threats.
The recent wildfires, including the Pacific Palisades and Eaton Fires, have been particularly destructive, claiming multiple lives and prompting widespread evacuations. The region is currently contending with the Hughes Fire, which has led to evacuation orders for over 50,000 individuals.
State officials, including Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire, have pledged support for affected communities, emphasizing the state's commitment to recovery efforts.
Newsom's administration anticipates reimbursement from the federal government for the disaster relief funding. Moreover, a coalition of state-chartered financial institutions has committed to providing mortgage relief to homeowners impacted by the fires in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
Lawmakers view the approved funding as an initial step in aiding wildfire survivors and fortifying communities against future fire threats. Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel highlighted the universal vulnerability to wildfires, underscoring the need for ongoing support and preparedness.
