Assemblymember Kate Sanchez (R-71) criticized Governor Gavin Newsom for vetoing a bill she claimed would have prevented the layoffs of thousands of seasonal firefighters. She described the decision as “negligence of the highest order” in a post on January 9.
“Last year Gov. Newsom vetoed a bill that would have let CalFire retain seasonal firefighters to help with staffing shortages. His veto forced the layoff of thousands of seasonal firefighters, who he never replaced despite his promises,” Sanchez said in her post. “This is negligence of the highest order.”
In his veto message, Governor Newsom explained that the proposed 66-hour work week for firefighters would require hiring over 2,000 new year-round firefighters, thereby significantly increasing CAL FIRE’s capacity during the off-season. He said that this expansion made the bill unnecessary and noted potential conflicts with Article VII, Section 5 of the California Constitution, which limits temporary appointments to no longer than nine months within a consecutive twelve-month period.
CNN reported on January 10 that Los Angeles firefighters had warned of resource shortages weeks before devastating wildfires struck. Budget cuts reportedly left fire trucks idle and mechanics scarce. An analysis showed that the Los Angeles Fire Department has fewer firefighters per capita than nearly any other major U.S. city, with less than one firefighter per 1,000 residents.
According to Cal Fire, as of January 27, the Palisades and Eaton Fires are largely contained at 95% and 99%, respectively. The Palisades Fire has burned over 23,000 acres and resulted in significant destruction and fatalities. Similarly, the Eaton Fire has caused extensive damage and loss of life. Santa Ana winds and drought conditions exacerbated by heavy brush from previous years’ rains contributed to the fires’ severity. Investigations into their causes are ongoing.
People Magazine reported on January 9 that Victor Shaw was found dead after attempting to protect his home from the Eaton Fire. His sister Shari Shaw tried to persuade him to evacuate due to his health issues but was unsuccessful. As flames approached on January 7, Shari evacuated for safety reasons but returned to find their home destroyed by fire. Shaw’s body was discovered outside holding a water hose in an attempt to combat the blaze.
Sanchez was elected to the California State Assembly in November 2022 representing the 71st Assembly District. She advocates for parental rights, public safety, and opposes tax increases. Her background includes lawmaking and education reform work with policymakers such as Congressman Ed Royce and leadership roles in organizations like the California Women’s Leadership Association.
