California Gov. Gavin Newsom requested nearly $40 billion in wildfire recovery aid from Congress following devastating fires in Southern California that killed at least 29 people and destroyed over 16,000 structures.

The funds would support both immediate recovery and long-term rebuilding efforts, including repairs, business loans, and low-income housing credits.

Newsom emphasized the lasting economic impact and the need for federal assistance, building on the $2.5 billion state relief package, CNN has reported.

While former President Biden pledged federal coverage for the first 180 days of recovery, President Trump and some Republicans have suggested conditioning aid on changes to California’s environmental policies.

Written by B.C. Begley