California’s partnership with federal government boosts state’s rapid response to Los Angeles fires
The Californer/10301733

~ Los Angeles, CA - As the unprecedented fires continue to ravage through Los Angeles, California's response efforts have been boosted by a strong partnership with the Biden-Harris Administration. Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his gratitude for the swift support from the federal government, which has provided emergency funds and resources to protect thousands of Californians.

Governor Newsom met with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell while on the ground in Los Angeles. The Governor and President Biden were also briefed by local and state emergency officials on the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires during their visit to Santa Monica yesterday.

Shortly after the briefing, President Biden approved Governor Newsom's request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to support ongoing response efforts related to the major wildfires. This declaration makes federal funding available to help cover emergency response costs for state, tribal, and local governments. It also includes Individual Assistance programs for affected citizens and businesses.

In addition to this declaration, President Biden has also provided significant fire suppression support to California. This includes eight large air tankers, 19 helicopters, and dozens of engines. The President has also directed additional firefighting resources to join the thousands of boots already on the ground.

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Thanks to this partnership with the federal government, Californians can now apply for federal assistance at disasterassistance.gov. This assistance may include temporary accommodation and financial aid for destroyed property.

Governor Newsom emphasized that President Biden and his administration have been incredible partners in their ongoing fight against these unprecedented wildfires. He also announced that at his request for more federal assistance, the President has authorized increasing federal coverage of California's fire management and debris removal costs from 75% to 100% for 180 days.

Earlier this week, Governor Newsom announced that California had secured Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAG) from FEMA to help ensure vital resources are available in battling these fires. These grants will assist local, state, and tribal agencies in applying for 100% reimbursement of their eligible fire suppression costs.

The state is also mobilizing up to 140 water tanker trucks to support the ongoing fight against the fires. More than 7,500 state personnel are currently on the ground working with local and federal partners to respond to the wildfires.

The Governor's swift action in securing a Major Disaster Declaration from President Biden has been crucial in supporting California's response efforts. As the fires continue to rage on, the state is grateful for the strong partnership with the federal government and their commitment to protecting Californians.

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