State of Emergency Declared
On Tuesday, January 8 Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency and issued an executive order to support communities affected by the ongoing wildfires. These actions enable the deployment of state resources and streamline the response to assist impacted areas. You can access the full text of the executive order here.
Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) Secured
The Governor obtained three Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support efforts for the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires. These grants ensure that resources are available to suppress the fires effectively.
FMAGs are federally funded through the President’s Disaster Relief Fund and provide a cost-share mechanism to aid local, state, and tribal agencies. Eligible agencies may be reimbursed, as specified for fire suppression costs, including:
· Field camps and equipment use.
- Materials and supplies.
- Mobilization and demobilization activities.
FMAGs are available to state, local, special districts and tribal governments to support efforts in mitigating, managing, and controlling fires on public or private forests or grasslands that pose a significant threat of severe destruction, potentially qualifying as a major disaster
For more information on FMAGs visit the Cal OES website or visit FEMA’s website.
Presidential Major Disaster Declaration Approved
On January 8, President Joe Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to support ongoing response and recovery efforts for the Los Angeles fires. This declaration enables the federal government to provide a broad range of assistance programs for individuals and public infrastructure, including:
- Temporary housing and home repairs.
- Debris removal and infrastructure restoration.
- Grants for eligible businesses and local governments.
FEMA manages the distribution of federal assistance under these declarations. Key points about a Major Disaster Declaration include:
- Eligibility: Individuals, businesses, and state, tribal, and local governments within the designated disaster area.
- Assistance Provided: Federal funding for both immediate emergency needs and long-term recovery efforts.
How Federal Disaster Assistance Works
A Major Disaster Declaration allows the federal government to step in when the severity of damage surpasses the capabilities of state and local governments. Assistance may include:
- Individual Assistance: Programs such as the Individuals and Households Program, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Unemployment Assistance, and more.
- Public Assistance: Support for state, tribal, and local governments, including:
- Debris removal and emergency protective measures.
- Repair or replacement of roads, utilities, and other infrastructure.
- Hazard Mitigation Assistance: Funding to prevent or reduce long-term risks to life and property from future hazards.
To initiate federal assistance, a Governor or Tribal Chief Executive must submit a formal request to the President through FEMA’s Regional Administrator. This request must confirm the need for federal aid and outline preliminary damage assessments and resource needs. Visit disasterassistance.gov to apply.
California’s Emergency Response Efforts
The state has deployed its resources to support efforts against the Southern California wildfires.
- California Department of Social Services (CDSS): In collaboration with Los Angeles County, CDSS is providing residents access to safety net benefits, such as food assistance. Four shelters are currently open, housing approximately 500 people.
- For assistance, visit the CDSS website or the Disaster Services Branch page. Individuals and families can also apply for support through the Disaster Grant Assistance page.
- Support for Immigrant Californians: CDSS is distributing the state’s Guide to Disaster Assistance Services for Immigrant Californians, ensuring resources are accessible regardless of immigration status.
Stay Informed
The situation is evolving, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. For additional resources and ongoing updates, visit caloes.ca.gov.