Chico Times

Yesterday, Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher joined President Donald Trump and other leaders in a roundtable discussion addressing wildfire relief and prevention in Southern California. The conversation focused on the severe impact of recent wildfires and the need for enhanced fire prevention measures to safeguard communities from future disasters.

Gallagher emphasized the importance of fuel reduction and removing obstacles to managing California's wildlands. Both President Trump and local leaders recognized the significant losses experienced by affected communities, reiterating their commitment to rebuilding efforts and necessary policy changes.

"From Paradise to the Palisades, the problem is fuel. It's the number one cause of these fires," stated Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher. "We need to remove these bureaucratic hurdles that get in the way of doing our job. These regulations stopped a town in my district, Berry Creek, from doing a fuels reduction project. While they were waiting on paperwork, the North Complex fire destroyed the town. We need to make sure that never happens again."

The wildfires have devastated tens of thousands of acres in Southern California, destroying thousands of homes, displacing numerous families, and resulting in 28 fatalities. Gallagher urged for immediate relief for affected areas and stressed that improved policies are crucial to preventing future tragedies.