Wildfires

While Gov. Gavin Newsom often refers to California as a "nation-state" with global influence, his efforts to lobby for disaster aid are a reminder that the state is still dependent on Washington.

A proposal by state Sen. Scott Wiener creates a new wrinkle in four interrelated issues: climate change, the future of California’s petroleum industry, the scourge of wildfires and the reluctance of many insurers to write new policies.

If nothing else, the Los Angeles fires underscored the absolutely vital role of a healthy insurance market — not only in protecting the investments that Californians have in their homes and businesses, but as a key component for buying and selling real estate.

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 […]

California has known for years that it must pay extra attention to people with disabilities and limited mobility during natural disasters. Will it put the lessons of the L.A. fires to use for the next emergency?

The recent spate of LA fires has led many different parties to re-examine state and local approaches to building approval.

The helpers need help. As federal funding for anti-hunger programs face major cuts, California faces its own $56 million chop in money it sends to food banks.

In some areas, hazards have surged. Buildings in the highest hazard zones will be subject to the strictest fire-resiliency rules.

The response to homelessness in California, which has suffered from a lack of clear responsibility with officials pointing fingers, offers a warning for Los Angeles fire recovery.

In the end, Mayor Karen Bass will be judged by one metric: Did she house the people of Los Angeles?