Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a collaboration between the California Department of Technology (CDT) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to assist those affected by the Los Angeles firestorms. This partnership aims to provide streamlined access to benefits and services through a single, secure Login.gov account.
The initiative will allow Californians impacted by the firestorms to use one account for both state benefits and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) services. The integrated service promises seamless, secure digital access to critical services during disasters.
This development builds on the CA.gov/LAfires website, which has already seen over 200,000 users seeking support. Governor Newsom stated, “California is working in overdrive to help those impacted by the Los Angeles firestorms. This partnership with the Biden-Harris Administration will get critical resources from both the state and federal government to survivors faster and more efficiently than ever.”
GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan highlighted past successes: “Since Login’s deployment during the devastating Maui wildfires in 2023, the program has worked to further expand its services, including rapidly responding to future disasters.” She emphasized efforts to remove public roadblocks while enhancing protections against fraud.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between California and GSA for deploying additional Login.gov authentication services. Amy Tong, Secretary of California Government Operations Agency, remarked on ongoing efforts: “In the aftermath of this tragedy, state technology teams are on the ground doing everything possible to give survivors a path to a smooth process.”
Liana Bailey-Crimmins, California State Chief Information Officer and CDT Director said, “This partnership with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and Login.gov will make recovery easier and faster for Los Angeles wildfire survivors.”
Digital Disaster Recovery Centers are being established with staff deployed in Los Angeles County. Jeffery Marino from Office of Data and Innovation commented on their approach: “With this partnership, we’re making great strides towards improving access and meeting Californians where they are, especially in their time of need.”
For more information about California’s response efforts regarding these fires visit ca.gov/LAfires.
