advocacy update //byline Scott Terrell, Director of Government Relations February 19, 2025 In response to the devastating wildfires that recently swept through Los Angeles, AIA California, alongside ACEC California and the California Geotechnical Engineering Association, submitted a formal request urging Governor Gavin Newsom to take action under Health and Safety Code Section 19851. The letter sought a waiver allowing affected property owners to access copies of their original building plans—an essential step in expediting insurance claims, reconstruction planning, and permitting processes. The letter emphasized the pressing need for homeowners to retrieve these critical documents without bureaucratic hurdles. Many wildfire victims require these plans to work with insurers, architects, and engineers to restore their homes swiftly and efficiently. Without them, homeowners could face unnecessary delays, increased costs, and prolonged displacement. Recognizing the urgency of this matter, Governor Newsom responded decisively with Executive Order N-20-25. This executive order further streamlines permitting laws and removes red tape, facilitating a faster and more efficient rebuilding process for Los Angeles communities impacted by the wildfires. The order aligns with the state’s broader commitment to supporting disaster-stricken residents by providing practical solutions that ease their path to recovery. This action underscores the importance of collaboration between state leadership and industry professionals in addressing challenges that arise from natural disasters. By ensuring that property owners can access their building plans without undue restrictions, California is taking a crucial step toward helping communities rebuild stronger and more resilient than before.
Governor Newsom Acts on AIA California’s Request to Streamline Rebuilding Efforts
//byline
Scott Terrell, Director of Government Relations
In response to the devastating wildfires that recently swept through Los Angeles, AIA California, alongside ACEC California and the California Geotechnical Engineering Association, submitted a formal request urging Governor Gavin Newsom to take action under Health and Safety Code Section 19851. The letter sought a waiver allowing affected property owners to access copies of their original building plans—an essential step in expediting insurance claims, reconstruction planning, and permitting processes.
The letter emphasized the pressing need for homeowners to retrieve these critical documents without bureaucratic hurdles. Many wildfire victims require these plans to work with insurers, architects, and engineers to restore their homes swiftly and efficiently. Without them, homeowners could face unnecessary delays, increased costs, and prolonged displacement.
Recognizing the urgency of this matter, Governor Newsom responded decisively with Executive Order N-20-25. This executive order further streamlines permitting laws and removes red tape, facilitating a faster and more efficient rebuilding process for Los Angeles communities impacted by the wildfires. The order aligns with the state’s broader commitment to supporting disaster-stricken residents by providing practical solutions that ease their path to recovery.
This action underscores the importance of collaboration between state leadership and industry professionals in addressing challenges that arise from natural disasters. By ensuring that property owners can access their building plans without undue restrictions, California is taking a crucial step toward helping communities rebuild stronger and more resilient than before.
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