SACROMENTO, CA – California Governor Gavin Newsom has asked Congress to approve nearly $40 billion in aid to help the Los Angeles area recover from January A catastrophic wildfirehe said, could be the most expensive natural disaster in US history.
Newsom sent a letter Friday asking for support from lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and House Budget Committee Chairman Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla).
“Los Angeles is one of the most economically productive places in the world, but we can rebound and thrive with just federal support to recover from this unprecedented disaster,” Newsmom said. I am writing.
The estimated total economic losses from the Firestorm are estimated to exceed $250 billion. It is expected to potentially exceed $30 billionaccording to an analysis by the Los Angeles Times.
Over 16,200 structures were destroyed as they inflamed the Pacific Palisade, Malibu, Pasadena and Altadena.
Newsom vowed that the funds will be used Rebuild the housesupporting the needs of people affected by the destruction, while also supporting infrastructure, businesses, schools, churches, and healthcare facilities.
“No doubt Los Angeles will spend this money wisely,” Newsom wrote.
His biggest demands are an additional $16.8 billion from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, primarily intended to rebuild property and infrastructure, with $5 billion allocated Clean up debris.
Newsom also sought $9.9 billion from the Housing and Urban Development Agency for grants to fire victims, homeowners and businesses and the tenant$5.29 billion from homeowners and business loans from the Small Business Bureau.
Newsom thanked President Donald Trump for his help in removing debris in speed tracing. The letter did not address the recent threat from the Trump administration that federal aid could be brought about by attaching a string.
“We are forever grateful,” Newsom said.
Trump is a frequent critic of Newsom and California's water policy. Rick Grenell, Trump's ally Rick Grenell, who serves as a special mission envoy, said on Friday there were “conditions” for the state's federal aid.
He said one of the conditions that could be discussed is a refund from the California Coastal Commission, which regulates coastal development and protects access to public beaches.
Trump has criticized the agency as being overly restrictive, bureaucratic and an obstacle to timely reconstruction efforts.
