Laws Will Be Suspended to Speed Up Debris Cleanup of Palisades, Eaton Fires
Gov. Gavin Newsom Issues Executive Order to Streamline Debris Removal
Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on Monday, January 20, to speed up debris removal and prevent debris flows in wildfire-affected areas ahead of expected rainfall.
Debris Removal and Flood Defense Efforts
The firestorms have left debris and burn scars across Los Angeles’ landscape, posing a safety concern with future rainfall. As burn scars do not absorb water at normal rates, they create a risk for mudslides, landslides, flash floods, and debris flows.
Reducing Risk and Protecting Communities
The order will help reduce the risk and protect communities by hastening efforts to remove debris, bolster flood defenses, and stabilize hillsides in affected areas, Newsom said.
Streamlining Emergency Response Work
The executive order streamlines emergency-response work, such as shoring up hillsides and clearing debris out of waterways, by suspending certain environmental rules and approval procedures for 90 days, through the end of the normal rainy season, Newsom said.
Protecting Waterways
Work in streams and rivers still will need to follow specified conditions to protect the waterways, he said.
Support from Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors
“I appreciate the governor’s swift action to remove all regulatory barriers so that our county can quickly provide critical flood and debris-flow protection to all areas impacted by these devastating fires,” Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chairperson Kathryn Barger said. “The work ahead of us is significant and will be a big lift. However, with this executive order, Los Angeles County Public Works can get to work immediately, well ahead of future rainstorms.”
Conclusion
The executive order aims to reduce the risk of debris flows and protect communities in wildfire-affected areas. By streamlining emergency-response work and suspending certain environmental rules, the state can quickly provide critical flood and debris-flow protection to all areas impacted by the fires.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the executive order?
A: The executive order aims to speed up debris removal and prevent debris flows in wildfire-affected areas ahead of expected rainfall.
Q: What areas are affected by the executive order?
A: The executive order applies to wildfire-affected areas in Los Angeles County.
Q: How long will the executive order be in effect?
A: The executive order will be in effect for 90 days, through the end of the normal rainy season.
Q: Will work in streams and rivers still need to follow specified conditions?
A: Yes, work in streams and rivers will still need to follow specified conditions to protect the waterways.
