California Governor Asks Congress for Nearly $40 Billion for Los Angeles Wildfire Relief
Request for Funding to Support Rebuilding and Recovery Efforts
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has asked Congress to approve nearly $40 billion in aid to help the Los Angeles area recover from January’s devastating wildfires, which he said could become the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history.
Letter to Congress
Newsom sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.), the House Appropriations Committee chair, requesting the support.
“Los Angeles is one of the most economically productive places on the globe, but it can only rebound and flourish with support from the federal government as it recovers from this unprecedented disaster,” Newsom wrote.
Estimates of Total Economic Loss
Estimates of the total economic loss from the firestorm have been estimated to surpass $250 billion — with real estate losses from the Palisades and Eaton fires predicted to potentially top $30 billion, according to a Los Angeles Times analysis. More than 16,200 structures were destroyed as flames ripped through Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Pasadena, and Altadena.
Funding Allocation
Newsom vowed that the funding would be used to rebuild homes, infrastructure, businesses, schools, churches, and health care facilities, while supporting the needs of people affected by the devastation.
“Make no mistake, Los Angeles will use this money wisely,” Newsom wrote.
The largest request is for an additional $16.8 billion from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, mostly intended for the rebuilding of property and infrastructure, with $5 billion earmarked for debris cleanup. Newsom also asked for $9.9 billion from the Department of Housing and Urban Development for grants to fire victims, homeowners, businesses, and renters, as well as $5.29 billion from the Small Business Administration for homeowner and business loans.
Debris Removal and Rebuilding
Newsom thanked President Donald Trump for support for fast-tracking debris removal. The letter did not mention recent threats by the Trump administration that federal aid could come with strings attached.
“We are eternally grateful,” Newsom said.
Conditions for Federal Aid
Ric Grenell, a Trump ally serving as his envoy for special missions, said Friday that “there will be conditions” to any federal aid for the state. One of the possible conditions being discussed was defunding the California Coastal Commission, which regulates coastal development and protects public beach access. Trump has criticized the agency as overly restrictive, bureaucratic, and a hindrance to timely rebuilding efforts.
Conclusion
The request for $40 billion in aid from Congress is a significant step towards supporting the recovery efforts in Los Angeles, which has been devastated by the recent wildfires. The funding will be used to rebuild homes, infrastructure, businesses, and health care facilities, as well as support the needs of those affected by the disaster.
FAQs
* What is the estimated total economic loss from the wildfires?
The estimated total economic loss is over $250 billion, with real estate losses from the Palisades and Eaton fires potentially topping $30 billion.
* What is the largest request for funding?
The largest request is for an additional $16.8 billion from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, mostly intended for the rebuilding of property and infrastructure.
* What are the possible conditions for federal aid?
One of the possible conditions being discussed is defunding the California Coastal Commission, which regulates coastal development and protects public beach access.
* Has the governor thanked the President for his support?
Yes, Newsom thanked President Trump for support for fast-tracking debris removal and said “We are eternally grateful.”
