LOS ANGELES - Governor Gavin Newsom approved a $2.5 billion bipartisan relief package today to accelerate recovery efforts following the devastating Los Angeles firestorm. The governor signed the special session legislation near the fire-damaged community of Altadena, joined by community leaders and legislators.
The relief package, comprised of bills ABx1-4 and SBx1-3, allocates funds across three main areas:
- $2.5 billion for immediate emergency response and recovery, including evacuations, survivor sheltering, debris removal, hazard assessments, and traffic control
- $4 million to expedite rebuilding by providing additional resources for planning reviews and building inspections
- $1 million to rebuild damaged school facilities in affected districts including Los Angeles Unified and Pasadena Unified
"We're providing over $2.5 billion in immediate relief to expedite response and recovery efforts," said Governor Newsom. "Unlike MAGA Republicans in Washington who talk about delaying relief for political purposes, California is supporting our people with no strings attached."
The legislation received strong bipartisan support, with Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas noting that "California leaders from both political parties are united and working together to provide L.A. with the immediate assistance and support they need."
Beyond the relief package, the governor has issued multiple executive orders to:
- Extend tax filing deadlines for affected residents and businesses
- Streamline rebuilding permits and environmental reviews
- Fast-track temporary housing construction
- Protect survivors from price gouging and predatory practices
- Help displaced students return to school
- Mobilize debris removal and cleanup efforts
The state has also enhanced its online support through CA.gov/LAfires, which connects survivors with both in-person and digital resources at Disaster Recovery Centers. These centers provide assistance with food benefits, health services, unemployment claims, document replacement, and federal aid applications.
Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire emphasized that this package represents "just the beginning" of the state's commitment to Los Angeles's recovery, stating "We've got your back now and we've got your back in the months and years to come."