Chico Times

Legislative Republicans in California have called on Governor Gavin Newsom to convene a special legislative session. The request, made through a letter, aims to address the severe impacts of wildfires and the instability within the state's insurance market. The Republican lawmakers emphasized the need for immediate action to protect communities, stabilize insurance markets, and implement wildfire prevention strategies.

Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher from Yuba City stated, "The tragedy unfolding in Southern California is heartbreaking, and our prayers are with the victims, their families and our brave first responders. Californians need action to fight these fires, stabilize our insurance markets, and ensure no community is left to face this devastation alone." He urged Governor Newsom to gather lawmakers for a special session focused on finding real solutions.

Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones from San Diego echoed this sentiment: "The heartbreaking LA fires require an immediate and unified focus by all state officials, and the Legislature. A special session will help expedite any needed reviews, recovery efforts and changes in state law to help prevent such horrific tragedies in the future."

Assemblyman David Tangipa from Clovis shared his personal experience with wildfires: "Having personally experienced the devastation of a massive wildfire, I deeply empathize with the families in Southern California facing this crisis. Immediate action is critical. California families deserve more than empty promises—they deserve real solutions to the devastating wildfires threatening our communities." He called for prioritizing safety and well-being.

Senator Shannon Grove from Bakersfield added her voice: "The fires in Southern California are a tragedy and we pray for the victims and their families. Lawmakers have the tool of a special session for urgent situations just like this. These disasters cannot continue to threaten the security of Californians. If the majority party wants to ‘meet the moment,’ now is the time."

The letter highlights six key priorities for addressing these issues while noting that both crises require extraordinary responses due to their unprecedented nature. It also addresses financial risks linked with the California FAIR Plan alongside limited funding available for wildfire prevention measures.

Republican legislators remain committed towards equipping Californians with necessary tools along policies aimed at rebuilding as well as recovery efforts amidst ongoing challenges posed by wildfires coupled alongside insurance concerns across regions impacted within California's landscape today.