Mayor Karen Bass and the Los Angeles Congressional Delegation are pressing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to expedite the release of Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) funding, including six critical projects for the City of Los Angeles that have been stalled for over four months.
These projects are vital for enhancing L.A.'s resilience against future disasters, especially as recovery efforts continue in Pacific Palisades following the devastating January 2025 wildfires. Data from the Congressional Research Service indicates a significant halt in new HMA funding approvals since March 2025, excluding specific congressional earmarks.
In a letter to FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton, Mayor Bass demanded an immediate status update on Los Angeles's pending projects and urged the obligation of funds for those ready to proceed. "Los Angeles is doing everything we can to rebuild stronger and safer following the January wildfires, but we cannot do it alone," said Mayor Bass, emphasizing the critical role of FEMA funding in protecting communities.
The Mayor highlighted that these projects have been submitted, reviewed, and are prepared to advance, stating, "Every month of delay is a missed opportunity to strengthen our communities before the next wildfire, earthquake, or flood." Her call for action is echoed by Los Angeles-area members of Congress, including House Financial Services Committee Ranking Member Maxine Waters and Pacific Palisades Representative Brad Sherman, who also wrote to Administrator Hamilton seeking transparency and updates.
The six projects awaiting FEMA action include initiatives for the LA Fire Department's code compliance, the LA Department of Building and Safety's post-wildfire recovery center, the LA Housing Department's home hardening retrofits, seismic upgrades for LADWP electrical substations, a drainage project by LA Public Works, and fire-resistant covers for LADWP cable trenches. These investments are crucial for protecting infrastructure, housing, and public services, ensuring Los Angeles can build back stronger.