Mar 08 2025 2 mins
California continues to grapple with the aftermath of devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles in late February, causing widespread destruction and displacing thousands of residents. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to fast-track critical wildfire prevention projects statewide, aiming to protect communities from future catastrophes. The governor also announced a $245 million investment to support workers and bolster economic recovery, with additional funds allocated specifically for Los Angeles.
In a move to enhance public engagement, California is set to launch a first-in-the-nation digital democracy program called "Engaged California." This initiative will bring together community voices to inform policy decisions and program design, starting with the Los Angeles firestorm rebuilding and recovery efforts.
On the economic front, the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation released its 2025 Economic Forecast Report, projecting real GDP growth of 2.1% for the county in 2025. However, unemployment is expected to rise to 6.1%, up from 5.7% in 2024. The report also highlights ongoing challenges in housing affordability and the need for increased construction to alleviate shortages.
In Sacramento, Governor Newsom presented a balanced $322.3 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, with no deficit. The budget includes increased funding for the California Film and Television Tax Credit program and allocations from the recently passed $10 billion Climate Bond.
Environmental concerns remain at the forefront, with Pacific Steel Group breaking ground on the state's first new steel mill in 50 years. The Mojave Micro Mill, located in Kern County, aims to revolutionize the industry with zero carbon emissions steel production, creating hundreds of new clean jobs while advancing California's climate goals.
Looking ahead, March is expected to bring a series of storms to Northern California, potentially alleviating drought conditions but also raising concerns about flooding and mudslides in wildfire-affected areas. Additionally, the state legislature is set to debate several key bills addressing issues such as housing affordability, climate resilience, and economic recovery in the coming weeks.
In a move to enhance public engagement, California is set to launch a first-in-the-nation digital democracy program called "Engaged California." This initiative will bring together community voices to inform policy decisions and program design, starting with the Los Angeles firestorm rebuilding and recovery efforts.
On the economic front, the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation released its 2025 Economic Forecast Report, projecting real GDP growth of 2.1% for the county in 2025. However, unemployment is expected to rise to 6.1%, up from 5.7% in 2024. The report also highlights ongoing challenges in housing affordability and the need for increased construction to alleviate shortages.
In Sacramento, Governor Newsom presented a balanced $322.3 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, with no deficit. The budget includes increased funding for the California Film and Television Tax Credit program and allocations from the recently passed $10 billion Climate Bond.
Environmental concerns remain at the forefront, with Pacific Steel Group breaking ground on the state's first new steel mill in 50 years. The Mojave Micro Mill, located in Kern County, aims to revolutionize the industry with zero carbon emissions steel production, creating hundreds of new clean jobs while advancing California's climate goals.
Looking ahead, March is expected to bring a series of storms to Northern California, potentially alleviating drought conditions but also raising concerns about flooding and mudslides in wildfire-affected areas. Additionally, the state legislature is set to debate several key bills addressing issues such as housing affordability, climate resilience, and economic recovery in the coming weeks.