Newsom proposes $2.5 billion ‘Marshall Plan’ for Los Angeles
SUMMARY
Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA) proposed a $2.5 billion "Marshall Plan" to assist Los Angeles in recovering and rebuilding after catastrophic wildfires. The plan includes $1 billion for immediate response and recovery efforts, eligible for FEMA reimbursement, and $1.5 billion for future fire preparedness. Newsom emphasized the state's commitment to rebuilding Los Angeles "faster and stronger," with support from state legislative leaders, including Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire. The state has deployed over 1,900 firefighting units, including 1,390 fire engines, 80 aircraft, and 160 water tenders. However, California’s response has faced criticism, particularly for the early failure of fire hydrants. The fires have burned more than 40,500 acres, killed at least 23 people, and destroyed over 12,300 structures. To aid the effort, nine other states, along with Mexico and Canada, have sent emergency personnel.