Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a $25 million initiative aimed at supporting fire recovery workers and businesses in Los Angeles. The funding, part of the California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP), seeks to provide essential workplace safety information to those involved in rebuilding efforts.

The California Labor & Workforce Development Agency, along with other state departments and community-based organizations, will allocate these funds to 89 groups across the state. The initiative is designed to disseminate critical information about workplace protections and health measures for high-risk industry workers.

"We’re helping ensure that brave fire recovery workers and businesses have vital workplace safety information," stated Governor Newsom.

This announcement aligns with several other initiatives undertaken by the state. Earlier this month, local authorities launched grants under the LA Region Small Business and Worker Relief Funds. Additionally, Newsom's California Jobs First Economic Blueprint has been paired with substantial funding for various projects, including economic development initiatives for Native American tribes.

Efforts also include an executive order deferring licensing fees to aid business recovery and direct engagement with affected workers and small business owners. The state's financial commitments encompass infrastructure investments and federal grant acquisitions for job creation in impacted areas.

Furthermore, the Employment Development Department supports displaced workers through unemployment benefits extensions, while over 200 advisors assist small businesses with economic recovery queries. Resources like CalOSBA's guide for wildfire-impacted businesses are available online.

Financial support extends through loan programs from the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank. Expedited contractor licensing processes aim to facilitate reconstruction efforts swiftly. Public advisories emphasize hiring licensed contractors only.

Overall, these measures reflect a concerted effort by Governor Newsom's administration to aid Los Angeles' recovery following recent disasters.