Biden Announces 100% Federal Funding for 180 Days to Combat California Wildfires, Acknowledging 5 Deaths

Jan 9, 2025, 10:52 PM

President Joe Biden has announced that the federal government will cover 100% of the disaster response costs for the wildfires in Southern California for the next 180 days. This decision increases the federal funding from the typical 75% to 90% that was requested by California Governor Gavin Newsom. The funds will be used for measures such as debris and hazardous material removal, temporary shelters, first responders' salaries, and all necessary actions to protect life and property. Biden emphasized that local officials should spare no expense in their efforts to contain the fires. The wildfires have caused significant damage, resulting in at least five deaths and forcing evacuations. To aid in the response, Biden has deployed additional resources, including 400 federal firefighters and over 30 firefighting helicopters and planes.