Stop Governor Newsom’s Rollback of Environmental Protections in Wildfire Zones

Governor Gavin Newsom's recent executive order to suspend critical environmental protections in wildfire-ravaged areas is a dangerous shortcut that jeopardizes public safety, health, and the environment. These protections exist to ensure homes are rebuilt safely and sustainably while minimizing risks of future disasters. Removing them is a reckless decision that ignores the lessons of past wildfires and puts California’s most vulnerable communities at even greater risk.

Why This Matters

In the wake of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and across the state, we’ve seen the consequences of failing to address climate change and environmental degradation. Rather than doubling down on prevention and sustainability, this order undermines vital safeguards such as:

• The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA): CEQA mandates thorough environmental reviews to assess fire risks, soil erosion, and ecosystem impacts before rebuilding. Without it, homes may be rebuilt in unsafe areas with little consideration for long-term sustainability.
• The California Coastal Act: This act protects coastal ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Waiving these protections endangers species already struggling to survive post-wildfire devastation.
• Air and Water Quality Protections: Los Angeles already has some of the worst air quality in the nation. Removing safeguards will only worsen conditions, especially for families dealing with asthma and respiratory issues.
• Disabilities, Respiratory Challenges, and Elderly at Risk: This decision disproportionately affects people with disabilities, chronic respiratory conditions (such as asthma or COPD), and the elderly, who are at greater risk during and after wildfires. Poor air quality, lack of accessible rebuilding standards, and environmental hazards amplify their vulnerability and limit their ability to recover safely.

Broader Implications

This decision doesn't just affect wildfire survivors—it impacts all Californians. Here’s how:

• Increased Costs: Rebuilding without proper safeguards could lead to more frequent and severe disasters, placing a heavier financial burden on taxpayers.
• Environmental Damage: Fast-tracking rebuilding without oversight destroys habitats and undermines efforts to combat climate change.
• Unequal Impact: Vulnerable communities, renters, and low-income families are disproportionately affected by these decisions, while developers and wealthy landowners benefit.

A Personal Perspective

"As a resident of Los Angeles, I’ve seen firsthand the destruction caused by wildfires. Families are struggling to breathe, rebuild, and recover. Rolling back protections puts us all in greater danger—not just from future fires but from worsening air quality and environmental collapse."

What We’re Asking For

We demand that Governor Newsom:

1. Rescind the Executive Order suspending environmental protections.
2. Reinstate CEQA and Coastal Act requirements to ensure rebuilding is done safely and sustainably.
3. Collaborate with environmental experts, community leaders, and public health officials to create a transparent, accountable plan that prioritizes long-term resilience.

What You Can Do

This is a critical moment to act. Here’s how you can help:

1. Sign this petition to demand the reinstatement of environmental protections.
2. Contact Governor Newsom: Call his office at (916) 445-2841 to voice your opposition.
3. Share this petition: Spread the word within your community, social media, and networks to amplify our message.
4. Support Advocacy Groups like the Sierra Club, Earthjustice, and NRDC that are working to protect California’s future.

Time is Running Out

Cutting protections to fast-track rebuilding doesn’t solve the problem—it ensures it happens again. Californians deserve leadership that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and equity over expediency. Join us in demanding better for our communities and environment.