States, Cities and Counties
Here's a look at documents covering state government, cities and counties
Featured Stories
Wyo. Gov. Gordon Travels to Taiwan, Japan To Strengthen Energy and Trade Partnerships
CHEYENNE, Wyoming, May 9 -- Gov. Mark Gordon, R-Wyoming, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Governor Gordon Travels to Taiwan, Japan To Strengthen Energy and Trade Partnerships
Governor Mark Gordon (R-WY) will travel to Taiwan and Japan this coming week on an international trade mission focused on strengthening Wyoming's role in global energy security, expanding export opportunities, and advancing strategic partnerships in energy, education, technology, infrastructure, and critical minerals.
While in Taiwan, Governor Gordon will meet with Republic of China (Taiwan) President
... Show Full Article
CHEYENNE, Wyoming, May 9 -- Gov. Mark Gordon, R-Wyoming, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Governor Gordon Travels to Taiwan, Japan To Strengthen Energy and Trade Partnerships
Governor Mark Gordon (R-WY) will travel to Taiwan and Japan this coming week on an international trade mission focused on strengthening Wyoming's role in global energy security, expanding export opportunities, and advancing strategic partnerships in energy, education, technology, infrastructure, and critical minerals.
While in Taiwan, Governor Gordon will meet with Republic of China (Taiwan) PresidentLai Ching-te and other government and industry leaders to continue discussions on long-term energy cooperation and scientific collaboration between Wyoming and Taiwan. The visit builds on Governor Gordon's previous trade mission to Taiwan and reflects the growing relationship between Wyoming and one of America's key strategic and economic partners in the Indo-Pacific region. It is expected that agreements will be signed between the University of Wyoming's School of Energy Resources and Taiwanese Universities regarding research and use of fossil fuels.
"Taiwan understands what Wyoming understands, that energy security is national security," Governor Gordon said. "These partnerships are built on a shared commitment to reliability, innovation, and creating long-term prosperity through abundant energy and strong economic ties."
During Governor Gordon's travel to Taiwan and Japan, Wyoming partners and private sector companies are expected to announce several agreements and memorandums of understanding tied to energy development, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure investment and emerging technologies.
"Wyoming continues to prove that we can power the future while staying true to the industries and values that built this state," Governor Gordon said. "These partnerships demonstrate that the world recognizes Wyoming as a reliable source of energy, innovation, and strategic leadership. From natural gas and critical minerals to advanced power generation and carbon management, Wyoming is helping meet growing global demand while creating long-term opportunities for Wyoming workers and communities."
The Governor will be in constant contact with the office throughout his travels and will continue directing day-to-day operations. This trip comes as Wyoming continues to expand its international relationships and pursue new markets for Wyoming energy, minerals, agriculture, and technology sectors.
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Original text here: https://governor.wyo.gov/news-releases/governor-gordon-travels-to-taiwan-japan-to-strengthen-energy-and-trade-partnerships
Okla. A.G. Drummond: Organized Crime Task Force Raids Two Illegal Marijuana Grow Operations in Prague
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, May 9 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Organized Crime Task Force raids two illegal marijuana grow operations in Prague
Attorney General Gentner Drummond's Organized Crime Task Force raided two illegal marijuana grow operations Wednesday. Agents raided Benson Kush and Grand Growth, both in Prague.
Authorities detained 36 suspects, and three illegal immigrants were taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and deported. 48,665 plants and 1,803 pounds of processed marijuana
... Show Full Article
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, May 9 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Organized Crime Task Force raids two illegal marijuana grow operations in Prague
Attorney General Gentner Drummond's Organized Crime Task Force raided two illegal marijuana grow operations Wednesday. Agents raided Benson Kush and Grand Growth, both in Prague.
Authorities detained 36 suspects, and three illegal immigrants were taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and deported. 48,665 plants and 1,803 pounds of processed marijuanawere seized. The processed marijuana alone has an estimated street value of over $3 million.
"We are sending a clear message that the days of criminal organizations treating Oklahoma like a safe haven for illegal marijuana operations are over," Drummond said.
"We will not allow these criminals to continue exploiting workers, evade the law or endanger our communities. Those responsible will be tirelessly pursued and aggressively prosecuted."
OCTF agents worked to carry out these operations in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, Pottawatomie County, District 23 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the Oklahoma National Guard's 63rd Civil Support Team.
When Drummond took office, more than 9,000 licensed marijuana grow operations were in Oklahoma. Now, fewer than 1,200 remain.
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Original text here: https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2026/may/organized-crime-task-force-raids-two-illegal-marijuana-grow-operations-in-prague.html
N.J. A.G. Davenport: Three Defendants Plead Guilty in Connection With Scheme Involving Forged Paterson Zoning Certificates in Exchange for Illegal Payments
TRENTON, New Jersey, May 9 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Three Defendants Plead Guilty in Connection with Scheme Involving Forged Paterson Zoning Certificates in Exchange for Illegal Payments
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) today announced that three defendants, including a Paterson zoning inspector, have pleaded guilty for their roles in providing applicants for city permits with fraudulent Paterson zoning permits bearing forged signatures in exchange
... Show Full Article
TRENTON, New Jersey, May 9 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Three Defendants Plead Guilty in Connection with Scheme Involving Forged Paterson Zoning Certificates in Exchange for Illegal Payments
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) today announced that three defendants, including a Paterson zoning inspector, have pleaded guilty for their roles in providing applicants for city permits with fraudulent Paterson zoning permits bearing forged signatures in exchangefor payment.
Jose Fermin, 54, of Prospect Park, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on May 8, 2026 to conspiracy to commit official misconduct (2nd degree) during a hearing before Judge Sohail Mohammed in the Passaic County Superior Court. On the same date, Fermin's accomplice, Jose Juan Guerrero-Cruz, 46, of Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, entered a guilty plea before Judge Imre Karaszegi to official misconduct (3rd degree) during a hearing in which he admitted his role in assisting Fermin with the fraudulent permit scheme.
Previously, the third defendant, Alfonlly Monegro-Camilo, 28, of Paterson, New Jersey, pleaded guilty on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, before Judge Karaszegi to forgery (3rd degree) and acknowledged Fermin and Guerrero-Cruz's involvement in the criminal scheme.
"Each and every day members of the public follow the rules expecting that the officials they interact with will do the same. The defendants in this case exploited their positions of public trust for their own personal gain," said Attorney General Davenport. "Corruption at every level of government is unacceptable, and our office will continue working to ensure that public officials are held to the highest standards of ethics and integrity. When they don't, they will be held accountable."
As set forth in publicly filed documents in this case, the conspiracy unfolded between roughly December 2020 and February 2022.
The investigation revealed that Fermin and his co-defendants arranged to supply applicants for official city permits with illegitimate zoning permits for residential construction and other bogus documents that included the forged signature of Paterson's Planning and Zoning Director. Some applicants were told they could receive sham permits without even submitting building plans. Fermin received payments in exchange for producing those forged, illegitimate documents.
On February 20, 2024, a state grand jury returned a seven-count indictment against Fermin as well as co-defendant Guerrero-Cruz. On October 1, 2025, the state grand jury returned a superseding indictment adding Monegro-Camilo as an additional defendant in the case.
Monegro-Camilo is scheduled to be sentenced on June 29, 2026. Guerrero-Cruz is scheduled to be sentenced on June 25, 2026. Fermin is scheduled to be sentenced on July 31, 2026.
Pursuant to Fermin's plea agreement, the State will recommend that he, the city zoning inspector, be sentenced to three years in state prison. As a consequence of his guilty plea, Fermin was also ordered to immediately forfeit all public employment and will be permanently disqualified from holding any future public office or employment in New Jersey.
Pursuant to their plea agreements, the State will recommend that defendant Guerrero-Cruz be sentenced to a term of probation, with the condition that he serve 364 days in county jail, and that defendant Monegro-Camilo be sentenced to a term of noncustodial probation.
This investigation was conducted by detectives from OPIA's Corruption Bureau. The case was prosecuted and the pleas were taken by Deputy Attorneys General Lisa Cialino and Adam Gerken for the OPIA Corruption Bureau.
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Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/three-defendants-plead-guilty-in-connection-with-scheme-involving-forged-paterson-zoning-certificates-in-exchange-for-illegal-payments/
Md. A.G. Brown Secures Court Ruling Against Trump Administration's Unlawful Tariffs
BALTIMORE, Maryland, May 9 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Secures Court Ruling Against Trump Administration's Unlawful Tariffs
Court of International Trade Rules in Favor of States' Challenge to Tariffs That Are Increasing Prices and Inflicting Chaos on the American Economy
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Attorney General Anthony G. Brown secured an order invalidating President Trump's latest efforts to impose unlawful tariffs on products purchased by American consumers and businesses. A federal court granted summary judgment
... Show Full Article
BALTIMORE, Maryland, May 9 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Secures Court Ruling Against Trump Administration's Unlawful Tariffs
Court of International Trade Rules in Favor of States' Challenge to Tariffs That Are Increasing Prices and Inflicting Chaos on the American Economy
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Attorney General Anthony G. Brown secured an order invalidating President Trump's latest efforts to impose unlawful tariffs on products purchased by American consumers and businesses. A federal court granted summary judgmentin a case brought by a coalition of 24 states and held that those tariffs are not authorized by law. Although the court's order does not directly provide relief to Maryland or its residents, it opens the door to future challenges to these unlawful tariffs.
"Time and again, courts are making clear that the Trump Administration cannot impose unlawful and costly tariffs on Marylanders," said Attorney General Brown. "This ruling is another important step toward ensuring that American families are not left paying more for groceries, household goods, and everyday essentials because of the Trump Administration's lawless trade policies. We will continue fighting in court to hold this Administration accountable to the law."
For more than a year, President Trump has unlawfully attempted to impose tariffs on essential goods purchased by American consumers and businesses. Initially, the President invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, but the Supreme Court ruled those tariffs were unlawful.
The President then attempted to use a different law that has never been used before -Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 -and imposed 10 percent tariffs on most products worldwide, supposedly in response to trade deficits.
The U.S. Court of International Trade ruled that those tariffs are unlawful, too. Section 122 allows tariffs only when there are "large and serious balance-of-payment deficits." But no such thing exists - a trade deficit is not a balance-of-payment deficit. As the court ruled, the President's tariffs proclamation "is invalid."
Joining Attorney General Brown in filing the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and the Governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
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Original text here: https://oag.maryland.gov/News/pages/Attorney-General-Brown-Secures-Court-Ruling-Against-Trump-Administration%e2%80%99s-Unlawful-Tariffs--.aspx
Creating Jobs in Philadelphia: Gov. Shapiro Secures $3.8 Million Investment From Bonduelle Americas to Open Its New U.S. Growth Hub in Pennsylvania, Creating Over 100 Jobs
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 9 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Creating Jobs in Philadelphia: Governor Shapiro Secures $3.8 Million Investment from Bonduelle Americas to Open its New U.S. Growth Hub in Pennsylvania, Creating Over 100 Jobs
The Commonwealth is investing $500,000 to support the food manufacturer's new U.S. Growth Hub in the City of Philadelphia.
Under Governor Josh Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania's economy is one of the strongest in the nation -- and the only Northeast state with a growing economy.
Since taking
... Show Full Article
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 9 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Creating Jobs in Philadelphia: Governor Shapiro Secures $3.8 Million Investment from Bonduelle Americas to Open its New U.S. Growth Hub in Pennsylvania, Creating Over 100 Jobs
The Commonwealth is investing $500,000 to support the food manufacturer's new U.S. Growth Hub in the City of Philadelphia.
Under Governor Josh Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania's economy is one of the strongest in the nation -- and the only Northeast state with a growing economy.
Since takingoffice, the Shapiro Administration has competed for and won over $41 billion in private sector investments that are creating nearly 23,000 new jobs and driving economic growth across Pennsylvania.
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Today, Governor Josh Shapiro announced the Commonwealth has secured a $3.8 million investment from food manufacturer Bonduelle Americas (Bonduelle) to open its new U.S. Growth Hub in Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth is investing $500,000 in the project, which will create well over 100 new jobs over the next three years.
The company will initially open its new Growth Hub in a temporary space in Philadelphia, with plans to secure a permanent location in the city.
"Pennsylvania is winning deals over other states because we're focused on what matters -- building a strong workforce, cutting unnecessary red tape, and making strategic investments that attract businesses and help our existing companies grow here," said Governor Shapiro. "We're going to keep pushing aggressively to secure more projects, create quality jobs, and drive lasting economic growth across our Commonwealth."
Bonduelle received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for a $500,000 Pennsylvania First grant.
The Pennsylvania First Program, which connects businesses with trained workers and supports job retention and capital investments, will receive an additional $10 million in Governor Shapiro's proposed 2026-27 budget, for a total of $38 million.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger was in Philadelphia today to help celebrate the company's first expansion into Pennsylvania.
"Bonduelle's decision to open its U.S. Growth Hub in Philadelphia is a strong vote of confidence in Pennsylvania's economy and our workforce," said Secretary Siger. "Thanks to the investments we're making in line with the Governor's 10-Year Economic Development Strategy, we're attracting new businesses, creating good-paying jobs, and strengthening Pennsylvania's economy for the future."
Bonduelle Americas is a certified B Corp helping more people eat plant rich, every day. Through a growing portfolio available in and beyond the produce aisle, the company brings fresh, convenient foods to consumers embracing a flexitarian lifestyle. Bonduelle Americas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Groupe Bonduelle (BON.PA), a global company with more than 170 years of heritage bringing the joy of plants to tables around the world.
"We want to win within the U.S. with innovative, chef-crafted healthy choices, meal solutions, and fresh services," said Bobby Chacko, Chief Executive Officer of Bonduelle Americas. "That means competing across the store and digital shelf, moving faster, and surrounding ourselves with the right talent and partners to do it. Pennsylvania and Philadelphia bring the kind of energy, grit, and food heritage that fuels how we build -- and how we win."
"From day one, my administration has made clear that Philadelphia is open for business and ready for investment," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "This decision sends a strong message that companies have confidence in our city and confidence in our future. This investment means good jobs, strong benefits, and more opportunity for our residents. Philadelphia offers the talent, location, affordability, and workforce businesses need to grow and succeed, and we are proud to welcome this new Growth Hub to our city."
"Bonduelle's decision to establish their U.S. Growth Hub here is a testament to what Greater Philadelphia has to offer, and to what a coordinated regional effort looks like when it works," said Chellie Cameron, President and Chief Executive Officer, the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. "Our region is driven by a collaborative business community, world-class talent, and a thriving innovation economy. We look forward to watching them grow alongside our members and partners."
This project was coordinated by Governor Shapiro's BusinessPA team, an experienced group of economic development professionals dedicated to helping businesses succeed in Pennsylvania through tailored guidance, strategic partnerships, and financial resources.
Shapiro Administration's Progress to Grow Pennsylvania's Workforce and Strengthen the Economy
In every corner of the Commonwealth, businesses are expanding and creating real opportunities for Pennsylvanians -- from Mondi Bags in Allegheny County, WebFX in Harrisburg, Premier Brands of America in Lackawanna County, John Brothers Holdings in Union County, TerraPower Isotopes in Philadelphia, Schreiber Foods in Cumberland County, Berwick Industries in Columbia County, Johnson & Johnson in Montgomery County, Eli Lilly in Lehigh County, Eurofins in Lancaster County, Calgon Carbon Corporation in Pittsburgh,DrinkPAK in Philadelphia, Farm Plast in Lycoming County, US Durum in Dauphin County, First Quality in Mifflin County, Eos in Allegheny County, Nichols Portland in Elk County, Imperial Systems in Mercer County, Qualex in Venango County, and Tate in York County.
Pennsylvania's Business Climate and Growing Economy is Earning National Recognition
Since taking office, Governor Shapiro has made Pennsylvania more competitive -- attracting over $41 billion in private-sector investment while creating nearly 23,000 good-paying jobs across the Commonwealth and earning national recognition.
* Pennsylvania is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy, based on analysis done by Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi.
* Last year, according to a new analysis of data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Commonwealth ranked third in the nation for job growth.
* Area Development ranked Pennsylvania among the top 20 "Best States for Business" -- the only Northeastern state to make the list -- and placed the Commonwealth in the top 10 for "Site Readiness Programs."
* Site Selection Magazine named Pennsylvania one of the top business climates in the nation.
* Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that Pennsylvania ranks among the top states in the nation for five-year new business survival.
Governor Shapiro's 2026-27 budget proposal builds on this momentum by investing in long-term economic growth and ensuring communities across the Commonwealth can compete and win. Over the last three years, Governor Shapiro has been laser-focused on delivering results for the people of Pennsylvania -- and it's working.
Learn more about the Shapiro Administration's efforts to support Pennsylvania's workers and businesses and spur the economy, to build a stronger, more competitive economy for all Pennsylvanians.
Read the Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget in brief here (https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/budget/documents/publications-and-reports/commonwealthbudget/2026-27-budget-documents/2026-27%20budget%20in%20brief.final.web.v.2.pdf).
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/gov-shapiro-secures--3-8m-bonduelle-americas-hub-in-philly--100-
Calif. Governor Requests Extension of FEMA Disaster Funding to Help Survivors of LA Wildfires
SACRAMENTO, California, May 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Governor requests extension of FEMA disaster funding to help survivors of LA wildfires
What you need to know: California is requesting a 12-month extension of federal disaster assistance for Los Angeles fire survivors to ensure thousands of families can continue accessing housing and financial support as they rebuild.
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With thousands of Los Angeles fire survivors still working to rebuild their lives as they await long-term federal disaster recovery aid, Governor Gavin
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, May 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Governor requests extension of FEMA disaster funding to help survivors of LA wildfires
What you need to know: California is requesting a 12-month extension of federal disaster assistance for Los Angeles fire survivors to ensure thousands of families can continue accessing housing and financial support as they rebuild.
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With thousands of Los Angeles fire survivors still working to rebuild their lives as they await long-term federal disaster recovery aid, Governor GavinNewsom has formally requested that the federal government extend critical disaster assistance programs to ensure families can continue their recovery.
California is requesting a 12-month extension of the Individuals and Households Program (IHP) through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which provides financial and housing assistance to disaster survivors. The extension would allow eligible survivors to continue receiving support through July 9, 2027.
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"Thousands of Californians are still navigating the long road to recovery after these devastating fires. We're doing everything in our power to support survivors, but they need continued federal support to rebuild safely and fully. Cutting off assistance now would leave families without the resources they need at a critical moment in their recovery."
- Governor Gavin Newsom
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The request reflects the scale and complexity of the ongoing recovery from the devastating LA wildfires. Many survivors remain displaced due to delays in insurance payments, housing shortages, and limited contractor availability. Without an extension, thousands of households risk losing essential assistance while facing challenges outside their control.
According to the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), as of May 3, 2026, nearly 29,500 households that may be eligible for this assistance were still navigating insurance claims, and nearly 1,000 households continued to receive federal Continued Temporary Housing Assistance. While thousands of rebuilding permits have been issued and thousands more are in progress, many survivors are waiting to begin construction due to financial uncertainty, lack of clarity about their insurance funds, and labor and supply constraints.
California's request follows months of coordination by Cal OES with FEMA and local partners to assess survivors' needs and ensure the request is supported by current data. The state will provide additional information in the coming weeks to further document the ongoing need for assistance.
At the same time, California continues to lead an aggressive, all-of-government effort to support recovery. Since the wildfires, the Governor has issued more than two dozen executive orders to speed rebuilding, cut red tape, and restore critical infrastructure. State and local partners have also completed one of the largest debris removal operations in California history in record time.
Governor Newsom has expanded direct financial support for survivors, including making available more than $100 million in grants through the CalAssist Mortgage Fund to help homeowners stay housed during recovery. Additional protections have been put in place to prevent price gouging and support renters.
Still, significant barriers remain -- particularly for families facing underinsurance or difficulty finding permanent housing in a constrained regional market.
FEMA delays are impacting the ability to rebuild
In addition to the need for expanded relief through the Individual and Households Program, California desperately needs FEMA to release more than $732 million in Public Assistance funding associated with the LA wildfires that is approved at the regional level but still awaiting final sign-off approval from DHS Headquarters. Only $37 million has been obligated. These delays are holding up critical recovery projects and rebuilding efforts in impacted communities that FEMA experts have already approved. Stalled projects include funding for schools, parks, water systems, and critical emergency response measures.
For survivors like spouses Bishop Charles D. Dorsey and Dr. Lisa Dorsey in Altadena, the recovery process remains ongoing. After losing their church in the fires, they spent months navigating the FEMA Public Assistance process due to delays caused by multiple federal shutdowns and onerous DHS review protocols. Stories like theirs are unfortunately the norm and underscore the need for continued federal support to ensure no family is left behind.
Trump abandons LA fire survivors
In addition to taking action to speed rebuilding, the Governor is also standing up for the Altadena, Palisades, and Malibu communities by calling out the White House for failing to submit to Congress long-term disaster funding for survivors of last year's catastrophic Los Angeles wildfires. The supplemental appropriation the Governor has championed will fund important programs like Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funds that provide flexible sources of funding for communities to rebuild and recover. The Governor, who went to Washington, D.C in December to advocate for survivors, renewed his call for immediate approval of disaster supplemental funds, urging Congress and the President to deliver the same compassion and urgency that have been extended to other communities across the nation. The federal government plays a critical role as a partner to the state in this long-term recovery effort. Funding in this supplemental appropriation would:
* Fund the rebuilding of schools, childcare centers, homes, and vital community facilities.
* Keep small businesses open, support the economy, and maintain jobs.
* Restore damaged water systems, rebuild responder infrastructure, and improve air quality monitoring.
Supporting survivors through full recovery
Extending federal assistance will help ensure survivors have the time and resources needed to transition from temporary housing to permanent homes and complete their recovery with stability and dignity.
California will continue working closely with FEMA and local partners to support survivors every step of the way.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/05/08/governor-requests-extension-of-fema-disaster-funding-to-help-survivors-of-la-wildfires/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces Major Hiring Milestone With Over 1,000 Young Adults Entering the Wildland Firefighting Force
SACRAMENTO, California, May 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces major hiring milestone with over 1,000 young adults entering the wildland firefighting force
What you need to know: Governor Newsom today announced a major hiring milestone for the wildland firefighting force with more than 1,000 young adults trained, certified, and hired to full-time and seasonal wildland fire positions since 2018 in a partnership between the California Conservation Corps (CCC) and CAL FIRE.
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Governor Gavin Newsom today announced
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SACRAMENTO, California, May 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
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Governor Newsom announces major hiring milestone with over 1,000 young adults entering the wildland firefighting force
What you need to know: Governor Newsom today announced a major hiring milestone for the wildland firefighting force with more than 1,000 young adults trained, certified, and hired to full-time and seasonal wildland fire positions since 2018 in a partnership between the California Conservation Corps (CCC) and CAL FIRE.
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Governor Gavin Newsom today announceda major milestone in his commitment to build the world's premier wildland firefighting force. Since 2018, CAL FIRE has hired over 1,000 young adults, who were trained and certified by the California Conservation Corps, to full-time and seasonal wildland fire positions.
Since Governor Newsom took office in 2019, the state has grown the number of CCC-CAL FIRE partnered firefighting crews by nearly 450%, adding critical resources in protecting communities across California. These record statewide investments are critical to ensuring California continues to build a trained wildland firefighting force that's ready to serve.
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California is paving the way for meaningful career pathways in emergency response and wildfire preparedness. I'm proud to see the work carried out by these young adults who are committed to making their communities more resilient while leaving a lasting environmental impact. With the climate crisis leading to more extreme weather events, it's more imperative than ever that we cultivate the next generation of wildland firefighters.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
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Investing in the next generation of leaders
When Governor Newsom took office, the CCC and CAL FIRE jointly operated six hand crews at three locations with 90 Corpsmembers. Today, that partnership runs 33 crews across 13 locations with more than 450 Corpsmembers actively training and serving, an expansion that made 1,000 firefighter hires possible.
Since 2020, in partnership with the Legislature, the state has invested $238 million in the CCC to build its wildland firefighter training and response capacity. An additional $180 million has funded the CCC Forestry Corps, fuel reduction, and community hardening to build upon the state's wildfire resilience efforts.
Corpsmembers aged 18 to 25, and military veterans up to 29, receive a monthly stipend while completing all the wildland firefighting certifications CAL FIRE requires. No prior experience is necessary. Celebrating its 50th year of service, the CCC has spent five decades turning that same entry point into careers in natural resources and firefighting for young adults throughout California.
In 2025, Corpsmembers supported wildfire, base camp support, and forest-health activities:
* CCC fire crews were dispatched to 355 wildfire incidents statewide, including the Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles. CCC fire crews totaled 415,930 emergency response hours.
* Corpsmembers assisted state and federal partners at base camp for 33 incidents in California, plus one out-of-state camp. There were 173 dispatches totaling 347,488 hours.
* Corpsmembers in the CCC Forestry Corps program reduced fire risk and improved forest health. Together, they treated 1,515 acres, removed 1,700 trees for fuel management, and planted 8,000 trees to support reforestation.
"The Corpsmembers CAL FIRE hired put in the work while they were with us, long days on fire lines, coursework in the classroom, and the physical demands that come with this job," said JP Patton, Director, California Conservation Corps. "Thanks to our CAL FIRE partners, we have built a pathway that turns that commitment into a lasting career."
"Corpsmembers bring a level of discipline, adaptability, and commitment to public service that makes them outstanding candidates for careers with CAL FIRE," said CAL FIRE Director and Fire Chief Joe Tyler. "Their training and real-world experience position them to succeed on the frontlines and beyond."
California builds the world's most powerful firefighting force
Governor Newsom, backed by the Legislature, has transformed California's firefighting capacity from the ground up -- investing billions to expand the workforce, and opening new training academies to keep communities safe year-round.
Historic investments-statewide
Since 2019, California has significantly expanded its firefighting capacity by investing in personnel, equipment, and training to protect communities from increasingly severe wildfires and extreme weather events. Under the Newsom administration, California's fire protection budget nearly doubled--from $2 billion to $3.8 billion and more than $2.5 billion in wildfire resilience and forest health projects. Governor Newsom and the Legislature have also invested over $350 million for wildfire safety projects on federal lands -- which make up 58% of California's forestlands. At the same time, the budget for the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)--the state's leadership hub for responding to and rebuilding after major wildfires--increased from $1.8 billion to $4.5 billion.
Training the next generation of frontline leaders
In July 2025, California opened a new CAL FIRE training academy in Merced County, the Atwater Training Center to accommodate an expanding workforce. The Atwater Training Center is the fourth addition to CAL FIRE academies, joining Ione, Redding, and Riverside. Academies specialize in leadership, aviation, and equipment operations programs. In October 2025, California celebrated the first graduation of company officers at the new Atwater Training Center. Company officers are CAL FIRE's frontline leaders in emergency response, leading crews during emergencies and overseeing readiness, training, and prevention efforts during non-emergency periods. In 2025 alone, CAL FIRE trained more than 650 new company officers. In 2026, CAL FIRE has graduated about 60 new company officers, and they're on track to reach over 600 by the end of the year.
Building the world's best firefighting workforce
Since 2019, CAL FIRE has nearly doubled the fire protection workforce--growing from 5,829 to 11,436 positions. Over the past five years, Governor Newsom, in partnership with the Legislature, expanded CAL FIRE's firefighting workforce by adding an average of 1,800 full-time and 600 seasonal positions annually--nearly double that of the previous administration. Last year, Governor Newsom launched a new recruitment effort to hire more firefighters and empower prospective applicants with comprehensive information about diverse career paths. For more information about career opportunities ranging from firefighting to land use planning and information technology, visit JoinCALFIRE.com.
Trump weakens wildfire preparedness while California continues to lead
President Trump has made dramatic cuts to wildfire readiness across the United States and especially in rural and high-fire-risk California communities.
* In the final year of the Biden administration, the Forest Service treated more than 4 million acres of hazardous vegetation to reduce wildfire risk. Under Trump, that number plummeted to 2.6 million -- a drop of nearly 1.5 million acres heading into what experts are warning could be an extreme fire season.
* Trump slashed prescribed burns by nearly half, dropping from over 1.6 million acres in 2024 to roughly 900,000 acres in 2025.
* Trump has proposed eliminating annual block grants that support state, tribal, private landowner, and urban forestry programs, which is funding that directly supports wildfire prevention partners across California.
* Trump is also turning his back on California communities trying to rebuild more resilient after wildfires. In April 2025, Trump cut a $35 million grant for Napa to reduce wildfire threats and build back more resilience after devastating fires. The Trump administration said the program was wasteful and ineffective. California is actively challenging the Trump administration to restore critical funds for the people of Napa, in addition to 86 other California hazard mitigation projects.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/05/08/governor-newsom-announces-major-hiring-milestone-with-over-1000-young-adults-entering-the-wildland-firefighting-force/
