California Governor Requests $40 Billion for Los Angeles Wildfire Recovery
Governor Newsom seeks federal aid to rebuild communities after January's devastating wildfires, which caused over $250 billion in estimated economic losses.
- Governor Gavin Newsom has formally asked Congress for $39.7 billion to support recovery efforts following January's catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles.
- The fires destroyed over 16,200 structures, killed at least 29 people, and caused economic losses projected to exceed $250 billion, potentially making it the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history.
- The funding request includes $16.8 billion for fire response, debris removal, and infrastructure repair, as well as nearly $10 billion for housing and business recovery efforts.
- Newsom's request has sparked discussions about potential conditions for federal aid, with some Republican lawmakers proposing policy changes like defunding the California Coastal Commission or implementing voter ID laws.
- California has already allocated $2.5 billion in state funds for immediate relief, with Newsom emphasizing the need for federal support to fully rebuild communities and restore economic stability.
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