Biden Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Los Angeles Wildfires, Unlocking Federal Funds

Jan 9, 2025, 01:37 AM

President Joe Biden has approved a major disaster declaration for California in response to the devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. The declaration, announced on Wednesday, will enable affected residents to immediately access federal funds and resources to aid in their recovery. The wildfires, which have forced evacuations and caused significant damage, prompted Biden to direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to approve a Fire Management Assistance Grant to reimburse California for firefighting costs. Biden, who was briefed on the situation alongside California Governor Gavin Newsom at a Santa Monica firehouse on Wednesday, emphasized the federal government's commitment to supporting the state's recovery efforts for as long as necessary.