MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION URGED FOR CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES

MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION URGED FOR CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 7 (Tuesday, January 14, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 14, 2025)] [House] [Page H125] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION URGED FOR CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES (Mr. CISNEROS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Speaker, my heart goes out to all the Angelenos who have been affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles County. It has been heartbreaking to learn of those who lost their lives and to witness the devastation of entire neighborhoods. I also want to extend my gratitude to the firefighters, first responders, and local officials who have been working tirelessly around the clock to combat the wildfires. Their heroism and bravery has been inspiring. I know that because of their efforts, these wildfires will soon be contained. There is no doubt that their swift action saved lives. I join Senators Padilla, Schiff, and 46 of my Democratic and Republican colleagues urging President Biden to grant Governor Gavin Newsom's request for a major disaster declaration. Thankfully, the President approved the Governor's request, and California has secured multiple fire management assistance grants from FEMA to ensure vital resources are available for local, State, and Tribal agencies. However, these grants are not enough. I am also appalled by the recent calls from the other side to condition aid on a debt limit deal. Now is not the time to politicize this crisis. I strongly urge House leadership to immediately bring a supplemental spending bill to California's efforts to combat this fire and make Angelenos whole again. ____________________