With growing fire risk, Governor Newsom proclaims state of emergency to fast-track critical wildfire prevention projects statewide | Governor of California

US-based Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency to expedite critical wildfire prevention projects in California. This action aims to protect communities from increasing wildfire risks by cutting bureaucratic red tape, including suspending CEQA and the Coastal Act. The state is investing $2.5 billion to implement the Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan, with $200 million allocated annually through 2028-29 for forest and fire prevention programs. The proclamation allows non-state entities to conduct approved fuels reduction work and directs state agencies to enhance prescribed fire strategies.