Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has implemented a comprehensive response to the Los Angeles fires, deploying significant resources and coordinating with federal authorities. On January 6, Newsom ordered pre-positioned firefighting personnel and assets in anticipation of severe fire weather. This included 110 engines and hundreds of firefighters stationed strategically throughout Southern California.

Over 16,000 personnel have been deployed, including members of the California National Guard, highway patrol officers, and transportation teams. The efforts are supported by a state investment in fire response that has nearly doubled since Newsom's administration began. More than 2,000 pieces of firefighting equipment are being utilized to combat the fires.

Governor Newsom activated over 2,500 California National Guard service members to support local law enforcement and protect communities from looting. This activation followed an emergency proclamation issued on January 7. The Governor also signed an executive order directing state agencies to assist local law enforcement as evacuation orders are lifted.

Newsom declared a state of emergency on January 7 to aid communities affected by the fires. He issued two executive orders aimed at supporting response and recovery efforts.

President Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration at Newsom's request to enhance ongoing response efforts. The declaration was expanded to include repairs or replacement of public facilities damaged by the firestorm.

In a phone call with President Biden during the firestorm, Governor Newsom requested additional federal assistance for California's fire management costs for an extended period. Within twelve hours, he secured three Fire Management Assistance Grants for vital resources needed for fighting the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires.

Efforts are underway for historic recovery and rebuilding in Los Angeles County. Tax relief measures have been introduced for those impacted by the fires, including postponement of individual tax filing deadlines and extensions on sales tax deadlines. Penalties on late property tax payments have been suspended for a year.

To expedite rebuilding efforts, Governor Newsom issued an executive order suspending certain permitting requirements under environmental laws. Temporary housing solutions are being fast-tracked through another executive order which allows construction of accessory dwelling units and mobile home parks without fees.

Debris removal is being prioritized to mitigate risks such as mudslides and flooding in burned areas. An executive order was signed allowing federal hazmat crews to begin cleanup operations promptly.

Price gouging restrictions have been expanded by Governor Newsom to protect survivors from illegal price hikes related to rent or construction materials following the disaster.

The Governor signed legislation providing over $2.5 billion for emergency response efforts in Los Angeles County. A dedicated website has been launched as an information hub for those impacted by the fires.

Education is also being addressed with an executive order facilitating quick assistance for displaced students in affected schools within Los Angeles County.

Finally, protections against real estate speculators targeting firestorm victims were put into place through another executive order prohibiting aggressive cash offers on properties damaged by fires.

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