Biden administration announces one-time $770 payments to California wildfire victims

President Biden A one-time payment of $770 was announced Monday for victims of California’s ongoing wildfires.

what happened: The announcement was made Monday during a wildfire briefing at the White House. According to the “Capitol Hill” report, the president emphasized that federal support is not waiting for the fire to end, but is provided immediately.

“As you know, we are helping them now. People affected by these fires will receive a one-time payment of $770 so they can quickly purchase items like water, infant formula and prescription drugs,” Biden said explain.

According to the president, nearly 6,000 survivors have signed up for the program and have paid $5.1 million. this Federal Emergency Management Agency Last week launched its Critical Needs Assistance Program, which facilitates the first one-time payment.

Biden also provided an update on wildfire control. The report stated that the wildfire control rate in Pacific Palisades was 14%, Pasadena’s control rate was 33%, and Ventura’s control rate was 100%. He confirmed last week that the federal government will bear 100% of the cost of fighting wildfires in California within 180 days and will continue during the incoming President Trump’s administration.

The announcement comes amid public disagreements between the president-elect Donald Trump and California Gov. Gavin Newsom Regarding fire handling. Newsom expressed concern that the incoming administration might withhold disaster aid from California.

See also: Joe Biden’s approval rating reaches 37% before exiting White House, poll finds president making progress in 1 of 18 areas

why it’s important: California’s wildfires have been a major cause of concern National Weather Service A severe fire warning has been issued for Los Angeles County. The fires have killed at least 24 people and damaged more than 12,000 buildings, with total damage and economic losses estimated at between $250 billion and $275 billion.

In addition, the Los Angeles area has been bracing for more “extreme fire weather,” with winds reaching 40 to 70 miles per hour, making it more difficult to contain wildfires. As of Tuesday morning, the Eaton Fire and the Palisades Fire were reported to be 35% and 17% contained, respectively.

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This story was generated using Benzinga Neuro and published by Sivdeep Dhaliwal