Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
July 15, 2024 - SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Insurance has released the Impacts of Extreme Heat to California’s People, Infrastructure, and Economy report that serve as a wake-up call to policymakers in our state. This first-of-its-kind report, the result of legislation authored by Assemblywoman Luz Rivas (D-San Fernando Valley) in 2022, examined seven extreme heat events from 2013 to 2022, revealing an astronomical $7.7 billion in state losses, encompassing diminished wages and productivity, severe disruptions in agriculture and manufacturing, and extensive infrastructure damage including power outages. Heartbreakingly, these events have claimed an estimated 460 lives between 2013 to 2022.
In 2022, Assemblywoman Luz Rivas secured $450 million in funding to combat extreme heat, yet this vital funding has been reduced over the past two years. The proposed climate bond aims to fill in these reductions. While it is an important step, it will not fully meet the magnitude of this issue, particularly in light of the state’s $7.7 billion loss.
“We can no longer afford to ignore the escalating crisis. Talking about the issue is no longer enough. For too long, extreme weather has been treated as a distant concern. It’s not a future problem, it’s here now, devastating our communities and economy. While the Governor has acknowledged the importance of addressing extreme heat, words alone will not protect Californians or our economy. Our state legislators must stop running from the issue and face it with the urgency and action it demands. We need concrete actions and comprehensive policies to mitigate the impacts of blistering heat waves, enhance the resilience of our infrastructure, and safeguard our communities,” said Assemblywoman Luz Rivas.
Governor Newsom has strongly advised Californians to take precautions amidst the heat waves engulfing the state. The Administration is working closely with various state agencies to ensure that outreach is provided to help Californians stay safe, cool, and hydrated. However, the state's delayed response and scrambling for funding have left it unprepared for the ongoing extreme weather crisis.
“The report’s findings are clear, while much of California’s wealth has traditionally flowed towards our coastal communities, it is now imperative to redirect significant investment into our urban and rural communities, where the impact of heat waves is most severe. These communities are on the front lines, enduring the worst effects of these weather events, and they need our support more than ever. This is not a matter of political affiliation,” stated Assemblywoman Luz Rivas. “Extreme heat does not discriminate between Republicans and Democrats. It is a runaway train we’ve seen approaching from a distance, yet we’ve failed to act decisively to halt it. The devastation outlined in this report is a direct result of the state’s inaction. I call upon my fellow legislators to engage with this issue earnestly and collaboratively. We must develop and implement strategies that will protect our residents, strengthen our infrastructure, and ensure that California remains a thriving and sustainable state for all.”
Assemblywoman Luz Rivas proudly represents the 43rd Assembly District, which includes the City of Los Angeles communities of Arleta, Lake View Terrace, Mission Hills, Pacoima, Panorama City, Sun Valley, Sylmar, North Hollywood, Valley Glen, and the City of San Fernando.
Source: Assemblywoman Luz Rivas
