CA lawmaker demands federal probe amid fire destruction, as Sacramento seeks unity and accountability
California lawmakers are coming together amidst the historic wildfires that are ravaging the Los Angeles area. While the fires continue to wreak havoc, at least one lawmaker has taken a different approach by calling for federal investigations into Sacramento’s fire preparedness and environmental policies.
Assemblymember Carl DeMaio, a Republican from San Diego, has sent letters to members-designate of the new Trump administration and top oversight lawmakers, expressing concerns about the state’s readiness for such disasters. DeMaio believes that tragedies like wildfires should unite both Republicans and Democrats in seeking answers and accountability for the lack of preparedness.
DeMaio is urging for oversight hearings as part of a special legislative session to address questions that he claims Governor Gavin Newsom has not adequately answered. He is also reaching out to federal agencies to investigate California’s lack of brush management, public land maintenance, and inadequate water supply and infrastructure in the fire-affected areas.
Meanwhile, Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher, who represents Yuba City, offered his condolences and support to those affected by the fires. He emphasized the need for immediate action on recovery efforts and real solutions to prevent catastrophic wildfires in the future. Gallagher highlighted the issues with the state’s insurance market, warning of insolvency if changes are not made.
Senator Shannon Grove from Bakersfield also expressed concerns about the state’s insurance market, noting that several insurance companies have stopped writing homeowners’ insurance in California. She called for the elimination of red tape to expedite cleanup, recovery, and rebuilding efforts for those affected by wildfires.
Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed $2.5 billion in additional emergency response and preparedness funding to address the ongoing crisis. Despite criticisms from Republicans about cuts to fire prevention funding, Newsom’s administration maintains that they have increased funding for fire prevention and response efforts.
As California continues to battle the devastating wildfires, lawmakers are working towards unity and accountability in addressing the challenges posed by these natural disasters. It is crucial for all parties to come together to ensure the safety and well-being of Californians and to prevent future catastrophic events.
