California's $40 Billion Federal Plea for Wildfire Recovery

California Governor Gavin Newsom seeks nearly $40 billion in federal aid to help Los Angeles recover from devastating wildfires. The requested funds aim to rebuild homes, infrastructure, and support those affected. Total losses are estimated over $250 billion, marking this as potentially the costliest U.S. natural disaster.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has made an urgent plea to Congress for nearly $40 billion in aid to assist the Los Angeles area in recovering from January's catastrophic wildfires, potentially the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history.

Newsom's request was directed to key lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep. Tom Cole, emphasizing the critical role of federal support in revitalizing one of the world's most economically productive regions.

The estimated economic impact of the firestorm, with losses surpassing $250 billion, includes significant damage to real estate in areas like Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena. Newsom's proposal outlines the allocation of funds for rebuilding infrastructure and homes, with substantial portions earmarked for FEMA and HUD, despite underlying tensions with federal administration over possible aid conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)