California Governor Gavin Newsom has formally requested $40 billion (£31.6 billion) in federal disaster relief to support the recovery and rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles following the devastating wildfires that swept through the region in January.
In a letter sent to congressional leaders on Friday, Newsom emphasized the urgent need for financial assistance to aid both immediate relief operations and long-term reconstruction. The wildfires, which caused widespread destruction and displaced thousands of residents, have left communities struggling to recover.
“I’m asking Congress to have the back of the American people and provide disaster funding to help Californians recover and rebuild as soon as possible,” Newsom stated in a social media post, urging lawmakers to act swiftly.
The request highlights the increasing financial burden placed on state and local governments as climate-related disasters become more frequent and severe. California has been at the forefront of wildfire devastation in recent years, prompting repeated calls for stronger federal support to bolster disaster preparedness and response efforts.
If approved, the funds would go toward rebuilding homes and infrastructure, supporting displaced families, and enhancing fire prevention measures to mitigate future disasters. The Biden administration and Congress now face mounting pressure to address California’s plea as part of broader discussions on disaster relief funding across the United States.
