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California lawmakers approve $2.5 billion in LA fires relief funding, New fires erupt in southern California ahead of Trump visit

California lawmakers approve $2.5 billion in LA fires relief funding, New fires erupt in southern California ahead of Trump visit

California lawmakers have recently approved a significant $2.5 billion relief package aimed at assisting the Los Angeles area in recovering from devastating wildfires that have ravaged the region since early January. The legislation, which received bipartisan support, was passed during a special session of the California Legislature and is now awaiting the signature of Governor Gavin Newsom.

Key Details of the Relief Package

Funding Allocation: The $2.5 billion will be directed towards various emergency disaster response efforts, including:

Evacuations and sheltering survivors

Removal of hazardous waste

Streamlining rebuilding approvals for local governments (with an additional $4 million allocated for this purpose)

Support for school districts to rebuild facilities (with $1 million designated for this effort).

Current Fire Situation: The region is currently grappling with multiple wildfires:

The Hughes Fire, which erupted on January 24, has burned approximately 16 square miles and led to evacuation orders for over 50,000 residents. As of now, it is about 14% contained.

The Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, which began on January 7, have collectively resulted in at least 28 fatalities and destroyed over 16,000 structures.

Upcoming Presidential Visit

President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit California on January 25 to assess the wildfire damage firsthand. However, it remains uncertain whether he will meet with Governor Newsom during his visit. Trump’s administration has suggested that federal disaster aid should come with conditions, a stance that has faced pushback from California Republicans who oppose such requirements.

This relief package represents a critical step in addressing the immediate needs of communities affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles County. With ongoing firefighting efforts and the potential for rain forecasted over the weekend, officials are working diligently to manage the situation while preparing for recovery and rebuilding efforts in the months to come.