Governor Gavin Newsom of California has taken action to help victims of the recent wildfires in Los Angeles and Ventura County by signing an executive order. This order suspends the permitting and review requirements under both the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act, allowing for a faster restoration process for affected homes and businesses. The following measures are included in this executive order:
– CEQA review will be suspended for properties that have been significantly damaged or destroyed by recent Southern California wildfires.
– State agencies will be directed to identify any additional permitting requirements, such as those outlined in the Building Code, that can safely be streamlined or suspended to speed up rebuilding efforts while also making them more affordable.
– Protections against price gouging on building materials, storage services, construction work, and other essential goods/services will now extend until January 7th 2026 in A County.
– Collaboration with state legislature is promised to identify potential statutory changes that could further expedite rebuilding processes while also enhancing wildfire resilience/safety.
Governor Newsom stated: “When these fires are finally put out, it’s crucial that those who have lost their homes/businesses can rebuild quickly without facing unnecessary obstacles.” He believes this executive order is a necessary first step towards helping communities recover stronger/faster. Additionally on Monday he proposed at least $2.5 billion dollars worth of state funding dedicated towards ongoing emergency response efforts as well as jumpstarting recovery initiatives specifically aimed at Los Angeles – including support for cleanup/recovery operations along with increased wildfire preparedness measures/efforts focused around reopening schools impacted by these disasters.
