Congress members urge $40B federal aid for California fire survivors and recovery efforts

Governor Gavin Newsom joined federal, state, and local leaders on July 7, 2025, to mark the six-month anniversary of the devastating fires in Los Angeles, specifically the Eaton and Palisades fires. The meeting highlighted the ongoing recovery efforts and the critical need for additional federal support for affected communities.

During the meeting, officials emphasized the significant aid provided by federal agencies, particularly FEMA, which has delivered over $140 million in direct assistance to survivors since January. Thousands of individuals have benefited from temporary housing and essential services. Governor Newsom expressed gratitude for this support but also urged FEMA to utilize all available resources, including the direct lease program, to ensure that every survivor has a place to live as they rebuild their lives.

However, the discussions took a serious turn as leaders criticized former President Trump's threats to eliminate FEMA and cut funding for local emergency services. They stressed that disaster recovery should not be politicized, asserting that aid should be provided regardless of political affiliation. Governor Newsom reiterated his commitment to advocating for a $40 billion supplemental disaster package to aid in the recovery process, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding homes and businesses without political strings attached.

Congressman Brad Sherman also addressed the meeting, acknowledging the federal government's response to the disaster, which included $3 billion in loans and $150 million in assistance grants. Despite these efforts, he pointed out that the aid is insufficient for many homeowners, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured. He echoed the call for the $40 billion package, highlighting the economic impact of the fires, which has been estimated at $250 billion, making it one of the largest disasters in U.S. history.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from local leaders to rebuild better, adhering to updated fire codes that have proven effective in past disasters. The collaborative efforts of state and federal officials aim to ensure that the affected communities receive the necessary support to recover fully and sustainably. As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on securing additional funding and resources to assist those impacted by the fires.