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By: @Ophelia Szigeti

Since the outbreak of catastrophic fires in Los Angels, Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a State of Emergency, issued Executive Orders, and expanded an Extraordinary Session of the State Legislature to support communities affected by the ongoing wildfires. He has also expanded the Legislature’s Special Session to propose at least $2.5 billion in additional funding for emergency response, recovery, and preparedness efforts.

Legislative Budget Committees are expected to meet Wednesday, January 22 to take up proposals related to its expanded Extraordinary Session, with floor votes anticipated for Monday, January 27.

A run-down of key actions follows:

Expanded Legislative Extraordinary Session

The Governor's proclamation expands the scope of the current special session, allowing the Legislature to consider and approve the new funding requests without delay. Specifically, the Governor is requesting the Legislature: 

• Boost emergency response funding: Provide $1 billion to augment state emergency response funding available to promptly fund costs, which should be eligible for reimbursement by FEMA for emergency response, cleanup, and recovery of areas affected by the January 2025 emergency conditions in the Los Angeles area;
• Help rebuild schools faster: Provide funding for technical assistance to local educational agencies regarding efforts to rebuild and repair schools;
• Increase preparedness: Accelerate the availability of $1.5 billion in funding for greater preparedness against the threats of firestorms, windstorms, and other natural disasters - adding to the response and recovery funding provided by the federal government.

Executive Order N-4-25 Streamlines the Rebuilding Process

The order temporarily suspends certain state laws and regulations, including requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act, for projects that repair, restore, or replace properties substantially damaged or destroyed during the emergency. These exemptions apply only to properties rebuilt within 110% of their original footprint and height.

The order also extends price-gouging protections for building materials, housing, emergency supplies, and related services in Los Angeles County through January 2026, beyond the typical 30-180 days, to protect affected residents from exploitative practices during recovery.

State agencies, including the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the Office of Emergency Services, and others, are directed to identify and recommend additional permitting and regulatory requirements that may need to be suspended to accelerate rebuilding. These agencies are tasked with submitting an initial report within 30 days and providing updates every 60 days to ensure ongoing assessment and response to recovery challenges.

The HCD is further directed to coordinate with local governments to develop streamlined permitting processes, including pre-approved plans and waivers, with the goal of issuing permits for residential reconstruction within 30 days. The agency will also review state building codes to recommend suspensions or adjustments that could facilitate cost-effective and resilient rebuilding.

The order prioritizes integrating fire-hardening measures and ensuring defensible space in reconstruction projects to increase resilience to future wildfires. It also emphasizes collaboration with the Legislature to explore potential statutory amendments to address systemic barriers to recovery. Proposed legislation may include incentives for incorporating fire-resistant designs, enhancements to fire mitigation and response capabilities, and durable solutions to reduce permitting delays.

Executive Order N-5-25 Prioritizes Two Key Actions to Expedite Recovery and Address Secondary Risks.

This order builds on recovery and preventative measures to safeguard impacted communities from further harm. Coordination between state, local, and federal agencies is emphasized as critical to the success of these efforts.

• Debris Removal Plan: The Governor has directed the Office of Emergency Services (OES), in coordination with local governments, FEMA, and other agencies, to develop and implement a comprehensive debris removal plan. This includes expediting contracts with experienced debris removal vendors to ensure affected properties can begin rebuilding quickly.

• Flash Flood and Mudslide Mitigation: Recognizing the increased risk of flooding, mudslides, and debris flows in burn scar areas during the upcoming winter storm season, state agencies such as CAL FIRE, the Department of Water Resources, and the Geological Survey have been tasked with creating a mitigation and response plan to protect lives and property in vulnerable areas.

The full text of Governor Newsom’s Executive Orders can be found here.

Federal Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) Secured

The State of California has received 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 vital 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 receive up to 75% reimbursement for fire suppression costs, including:

• Field camps and equipment use.
• Materials and supplies.
• Mobilization and demobilization activities.

For more information on FMAGs, 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.

California’s Ongoing Emergency Response Efforts

State agencies continue to work tirelessly to address the needs of impacted communities:

• California Department of Social Services (CDSS): In partnership with Los Angeles County, CDSS is ensuring residents have access to critical safety net benefits, including food assistance. Four shelters are currently open, housing approximately 500 people.
• 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.

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:

1. Individual Assistance: Programs such as the Individuals and Households Program, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Unemployment Assistance, and more.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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.

For additional information and resources to assist those affected by the ongoing situation in Southern California, visit ca.gov/LAfires.

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