Legislators eye new prevention efforts in fire-scarred California: 'A tipping point'
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Two months after the anniversary of the devastating Southern California firestorms, several legislators at the state Capitol unveiled a package of bills aimed at preventing wildfires and lessening their harms.“California has reached a tipping point,” Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) said during a news conference Wednesday.“In the last nine years, we’ve had the eight largest fires in the history of California — we shouldn’t have this problem.”Two of the most destructive wildfires ever in California erupted on the same day last January.
The fires devastated Pacific Palisades and Altadena — destroying homes and businesses, displacing residents and killing 31 people.The Palisades and Eaton fires caused an estimated economic loss of $250 billion.
California A reporter reflects on the loss of her hometown, Altadena, remembering what it was and imagining what it will become.Among the dozen bills announced Wednesday were: Climate & Environment A new home built in Pacific Palisades is designed for fire resistance without sacrificing architectural beauty.Allen, who represents the Palisades, said neighborhoods are being turned upside down by wildfires.“Modern fires are now spreading from wild lands into urban communities,” he said.
“The reality that so many people in my district have been living through over this past year has been immensely challenging.Tens of thousands of families remain displaced from their homes.”Many fire survivors have expressed anger over government action that they believe enabled the disaster and hindered recovery efforts.
When asked whether the Legislature had plans to dissect the response, Allen said he would support a robust investigation.“I think the public is expecting that the state is really looking into this,” he said.
“But I know there’s always 10 million different priorities around here — one of my jobs ...