Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the acquisition of a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) from FEMA to support efforts in combating the Mountain Fire in Ventura County. This grant is intended to ensure that necessary resources are available for fire suppression. Following this, Governor Newsom visited affected communities and declared a State of Emergency. More than 2,200 personnel have been deployed to address the situation, and an Executive Order was signed by the governor on Friday to provide continued assistance.

The California Department of Health Care Access & Information (HCAI) participated in opening the Lodi East Health Center. The center aims to serve approximately 20,000 Californians annually with facilities including exam rooms, dental operatories, and counseling rooms. HCAI insured $26 million for constructing this new health center.

Governor Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta have initiated legal action against Norwalk city. The lawsuit seeks to overturn an ordinance that bans new homeless shelters and other housing developments within the city. This move follows previous warnings and actions by state authorities, which included revoking Norwalk's housing element compliance.

The California Highway Patrol has received a $2.6 million federal grant aimed at reducing speeding and aggressive driving on state roads. In the fiscal year 2022-23, speeding accounted for 39% of fatal and injury crashes statewide. The funding will enhance enforcement measures and public awareness campaigns targeting dangerous driving behaviors.

In efforts to expand broadband access across underserved areas in California, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved $157 million in grants as part of its eighth round of funding for last-mile broadband projects. This initiative is part of a larger $2 billion Last Mile Federal Funding Account program designed to bridge the digital divide through Broadband For All.

Mount Rose/Ski Tahoe is set to open as Lake Tahoe's first ski resort this season starting Friday, offering limited operations for eager skiers and snowboarders.