California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an administrative order on Sunday, January 12th, aimed at streamlining the rebuilding efforts for Los Angeles County in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires.
The Governor’s office announced in a press release on Sunday that Newsom had signed an executive order to temporarily suspend the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act for permits and reviews, allowing the victims of the recent Los Angeles fires to expedite the rebuilding of their homes and businesses.
The order instructs state agencies to identify additional permit requirements, including those under the Building Code regulations. These additional permit requirements can be safely paused or streamlined to expedite the reconstruction of buildings severely damaged or destroyed in the fires, making the rebuilding costs more affordable.
In Los Angeles County, protections against price gouging for building materials, storage services, construction, and other essential goods and services have been extended until January 7, 2026, in response to the wildfires.
The executive order also states that the state government is committed to collaborating with the legislative bodies to identify potential legal changes that can help accelerate the pace of home reconstruction.
Over the past week, the Los Angeles area has been hit by massive wildfires, resulting in over 10,000 structures and numerous vehicles being destroyed, and causing the loss of 16 lives.
Following reports of water shortages faced by the Los Angeles Fire Department during firefighting operations, Governor Newsom initiated an independent investigation last Friday.
Newsom and other California officials have faced criticism and scrutiny for their preparations and response to the wildfires. President-elect Trump had earlier urged Newsom to resign in light of the crisis.