Environment

Local governments failed to communicate properly but the Governor's Office of Emergency Services also failed to help counties plan ahead.

Fire investigators have not found Edison responsible for the Eaton fire — but mounting lawsuits heighten concerns about its potential liability for the deadliest and most destructive blaze since the state created a fund to prevent wildfires from bankrupting utilities.

As LA-area wildfires burned, some companies fraudulently towed vehicles to the Inland Empire and charged thousands of dollars for their return, consumers said.

California and other states and counties are using a legal strategy that took down Big Tobacco, hoping to make fossil fuel companies pay for damage they have long denied. But many obstacles remain.

The governor has proposed spending climate bond money dedicated to wildfire mitigation in various ways. Some lawmakers think a focused strategy would be more effective.

Each year, legislation aimed at better wildfire mitigation fails – often due to cost or conflict with environmental regulations.

The governor vowed to clear the way for more groundwater recharge. Has it worked? “We’re still tinkering around with small numbers,” one expert says.

California’s new Low Carbon Fuel Standard has been stalled because it lacks ”clarity.” The new standard, which offers incentives for cleaner fuels, is highly controversial because it would raise gas prices.

Lea esta historia en Español Gov. Gavin Newsom has become a familiar sight around Los Angeles since the firestorm that swept through the region last month, leveling neighborhoods in Pacific Palisades and Altadena. In the first days of the disaster, he was spotted touring the wreckage. In the weeks after, he launched a recovery initiative […]

In the wake of the Los Angeles fires, State Farm asked for an "emergency" premium increase of 22% on average for California homeowners. Lara today denied the request pending more information.