California launches major workplace safety initiative as Newsom directs $25 million to support fire recovery workers and small businesses in rebuilding efforts across Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California – As rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles move at a rapid pace, Governor Gavin Newsom has reinforced his commitment to supporting fire recovery workers and local businesses by securing $25 million in funding for workplace safety outreach. The initiative, led by the California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP), is a joint effort between state agencies and local community organizations to ensure that workers and business owners have access to critical health and safety information.

The newly announced funding will be distributed across 89 community-based organizations (CBOs) through a partnership between the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), California Labor & Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), Cal/OSHA, and the California State Labor Commissioner.

These organizations will conduct targeted outreach to educate workers in high-risk industries on workplace protections, hazard prevention, and labor rights, particularly those involved in fire recovery and rebuilding efforts across Los Angeles.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of ensuring that workers and business owners navigating the challenges of recovery have the resources they need.

“We’re helping ensure that brave fire recovery workers and businesses have vital workplace safety information,” Newsom stated.

His administration has taken multiple steps to remove barriers and provide direct support to affected communities, focusing not only on safety but also on economic relief.

This latest initiative builds on a series of state efforts aimed at assisting workers and businesses in Los Angeles following the devastating fires. Earlier this month, the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and the City of Los Angeles launched the first round of grants for the LA Region Small Business and Worker Relief Funds. Additionally, Newsom introduced the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, which allocated $125 million for job-creating projects and an additional $15 million for economic development initiatives benefiting California Native American tribes.

Further solidifying his administration’s commitment to economic resilience, the Governor announced $3 million in funding for the Los Angeles Jobs First Collaborative, a regional initiative focused on job placement and workforce development. Newsom also rolled out Engaged California, a first-of-its-kind statewide initiative aimed at gathering public input to improve government operations and economic recovery programs.

To help businesses struggling in the aftermath of the fires, Newsom issued an executive order deferring licensing fees and waiving certain regulatory requirements. Additionally, he met with fire-affected workers and small business owners to discuss their concerns and outline the state’s ongoing efforts to support their recovery. These actions complement previous state investments, including $24 million in small business and worker relief funding, $10 million for the LA Region Small Business Relief Fund, and $11 million directed toward High Road Training Partnerships with workforce training organizations.

Beyond financial relief, California has worked closely with federal and local agencies to provide on-the-ground support. The Employment Development Department (EDD) has extended payroll tax deadlines, provided Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA), and offered Work Sharing programs to prevent layoffs. More than 200 business advisors from Small Business Support Centers are also helping local entrepreneurs navigate recovery processes, apply for loans, and access insurance and workforce support.

To ensure the safe and legal rebuilding of homes and businesses, the state has also taken measures to prevent contractor fraud and protect property owners from unlicensed activity. The Contractor State Licensing Board (CSLB) has expedited licensing applications for qualified contractors, launched public awareness campaigns about fraudulent operators, and established hotlines for fire survivors in need of assistance.

Additionally, the state’s Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank) has rolled out disaster relief loan programs, offering loan guarantees of up to 95% for businesses affected by the fires. Meanwhile, regulatory boards overseeing professions such as barbering, cosmetology, and accounting have rescheduled licensing exams and reissued lost licenses at no charge to affected professionals.

Governor Newsom’s latest actions continue a multi-layered approach to supporting Los Angeles as it rebuilds. By combining direct financial relief, workplace safety initiatives, and long-term economic strategies, the administration aims to strengthen the city’s recovery efforts while safeguarding the rights and well-being of workers and small business owners.

For additional details on available resources, individuals and businesses can visit the California Workplace Outreach Project or explore financial assistance options at California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank.

More details here.